THE opinions of the Egyptian artist Saad Al-Saddawi seem strange and different from those of other artists. His self-confidence drove him to the edge of arrogance. He assures us that he is not arrogant but he believes in his abilities and qualities as an artist. He said that his self-confidence is not new because when he was young, he gave his drawings to artists and asked their opinions. He has worked as a cartoonist, calligrapher and has worked on a number of children’s magazines. Sayidaty met the artist and conducted the following interview.
You studied architecture and drawing when you were young, didn’t you?
I have been an artist since I was young. I set up my own private art exhibition and I have my own work that I am proud of. At the same time, I also graduated from the architecture department.
You started with plastic art and then you moved to other art such as calligraphy. Why?
When I liked calligraphy, I concentrated on mastering the art. I sensed that there is something different in it and I tried to shape the Arabic letters into a picture. I managed to draw fine pictures by using calligraphy.
Artists are never satisfied with what they produce and always search for excellence. Is this true?
Only naive artists feel that way. Every artist should know their limitations. It has never happened that I have finished an artistic piece without being proud of it. When I draw something, I draw everything around me.
Aren’t you afraid of being accused of narcissism?
It is not narcissist but self-confidence. If I am not confident of what I do, then I cannot finish any work. I am not a narcissist but a realist and I know that my work is up to a high level.
How much do you love your work?
To the point that I kept my drawings underneath my bed so nobody would see them or buy them. I want them to be always near me.
You lived in Saudi Arabia for years. How did that affect your work?
I studied their culture and it is illustrated in my drawings for Al-Yamama magazine. I also addressed many social issues through my cartoons.
Has any member of your family been influenced by your art?
My oldest daughter is studying art and she paints on walls. Her paintings are beautiful and she is unique.
What bothers you the most?
I feel like I did not take advantage of many chances and did not invest financially in my work. Sometimes I feel underrated as an artist