Artist Spotlight: Ismail Azzam

Azzam spoke to QM about the process behind said workshops, which introduce aspiring creatives to the craft, while encouraging local artistic potential.

Q. How would you describe your practice to someone who is discovering your work for the first time?

Ismail Azzam: I see myself as a painter working in a contemporary realist style that leans toward Impressionism, with a particular focus on portraiture.

Q. What does a typical creative process look like for you, from the first thought to the finished piece?

Azzam: My creative process begins when I enter a state of spiritual and physical solitude with the artwork. At first, there is a stage of conscious mental planning, because realist painting involves certain calculations and structural rules. After that—and this is the most important part—the true creative journey begins once the preparatory stage is complete.

Q. Is there a material or technique you feel especially connected to and why?

Azzam: I don’t limit myself to a single material. All drawing materials are dear to me and important in their own way. An artist should explore and work with different materials, because the act of creation does not stop at a particular medium or technique. Each material has its own character, and understanding this technical aspect is essential to any creative work.

Q. What has been one of the biggest challenges in your work as an artist, and how did you move through it?

Azzam: Challenges come in many forms—from mastering basic materials to adapting to modern technologies. Each obstacle is an opportunity to learn and expand one’s creative toolkit. Persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment are key.

Q. For someone thinking of joining, what can they expect from your workshops at Mathaf?

Azzam: These workshops are designed for anyone with a passion for drawing and a curiosity to explore their creativity. Participants will be guided through the process to discover their own artistic potential.

Q. What do you hope participants will take away from the experience of attending your workshops, beyond what they create on any given day?

Azzam: The greatest benefit of these workshops is that participants discover themselves and their artistic potential. They explore creative worlds they may never have experienced before. There is also the joy of the creative journey itself. Ultimately, the finished artwork becomes a kind of reward for the artist.

Ready to explore your creativity?

Discover your potential with Ismail Azzam’s upcoming workshops. Visit Mathaf’s What’s On page to reserve your spot.