Life & Work with Dina Saadi

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dina Saadi.

Dina Saadi is a Syrian/ Russian street artist who currently resides in Dubai, known for her colorful and vibrant murals featuring portraits, animals, and abstract work inspired by nature and the underwater world. Her work explores the deeper theme of human identity and the collective awareness of our interconnectedness with nature and all life forms. With a focus on diverse, bold patterns & bright color palettes, Saadi aims to create a sense of joy and excitement while also encouraging viewers to think about deeper themes of unity and connection. The interplay between organic and geometric elements in her work reflects the relationship between the natural world and the man-made world, highlighting their inseparability. As an experienced street artist, Saadi has painted over 150 murals around the world in various locations, including the Middle East, Europe, the United States, Asia, and Africa. She has participated in numerous street art festivals and global projects, aiming to ​transform public spaces into galleries one wall at a time by using the streets as her canvas. In the media, Saadi has been featured in publications such as Vice, The Guardian, Vogue, and Harper’s. Saadi’s goal is not only to create art that brings happiness and promotes mental well-being but also to inspire people to explore and embrace their authentic identity and oneness with nature & all living forms in order to attain inner peace, tranquility & balance in life. She also hopes to inspire girls and women in the Middle East and globally to pursue an art career and live an unapologetic, creative life.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey as a full-time street artist and muralist has been both challenging and fulfilling. I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in an art-loving family with unwavering support from my parents. However, being a street artist in the Middle East has come with its unique set of challenges.

One significant challenge I faced was the absence of mentors and a well-established street art community during my early years. This lack of resources and experienced individuals in my formative years made the learning curve steeper.

Balancing commissioned work with my artistic vision is an ongoing struggle. I rely on commissions for financial stability, but administrative tasks can be draining. Access to public walls for street art in Dubai is very limited, so I travel and network internationally for opportunities.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I draw my main inspiration from nature, especially its organic shapes, plants, and wildlife. I blend these elements into my art, whether through realistic or abstract interpretations. Portraits also captivate me, and I enjoy merging them with nature’s touch to bring a touch of the outdoors into urban life.

Recently, my work explores the theme of human identity and our connection with nature. I play with organic and geometric elements, highlighting how the natural and man-made worlds are intertwined. Using vivid colors and bold patterns, I aim to spark joy and reflection on unity and connection.

My goal is twofold: I create art to spread happiness in public spaces, inspiring mental well-being while encouraging people to connect with their true selves and nature, seeking inner peace and balance.

As a street artist, my passion lies in sharing my work with the public, aiming to bring enjoyment and inspiration to those who encounter it. I cherish being part of the broader creative community, both artistically and socially. Interacting with people, hearing their stories, and contributing to the rich tapestry of public art is truly fulfilling.

My street art journey serves to express my love for art, connect with the world, and inspire girls and women worldwide to pursue unapologetically creative lives.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I encourage new artists to follow their creative instincts. It’s essential to create art for yourself, not to conform to others’ expectations. By doing so, you can produce art that’s truly honest, authentic, and distinctive. This is easier said than done, but it’s an important step that some new artists overlook. Secondly, it’s vital to tune out the negative voices; when you’re starting anything, don’t be swayed by naysayers; they often project their fears onto you. Each artist’s journey is different. Lastly, invest time in acquiring business skills and learning about financial management & sales. Art schools often overlook these critical skills essential for sustaining a full-time artist career. Self-education in these areas is a key to long-term success as a professional artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dinasaadi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinasaadi/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaadiDina/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinasaadi/

Image Credits
– My photo by Michael Cruz – ‘The Butterfly Hug’ mural for Long Beach Walls Mural Festival 2019 (previously called POW WOW) by _.the.adventurist._ – “Fighter” in Khor Fakkan, UAE. (Fish mural ) – “Earthly Spirits” Mural for Long Beach Walls Festival 2023- Photo by Brandon Shigeta (Indoor mural of a woman)