Bahrain’s rising sketch artist, Noor Hamada, has been bringing art to life across the island garnering widespread attention. At a recent Woman This Month event, Shannan Peter Vaz chatted with Noor to find out more about her ingrained talent that was inspired across generations.
Noor Hamada’s journey as an artist began with a deep-seated family tradition of artistic talent. “Drawing is an inherited skill in my family,” she explains, tracing it back through generations. “My great-grandfather, despite losing his sight, was a skilled shipbuilder, while my grandfather Abbas was an art graduate from Egypt who carried his paintings worldwide.”
Inspired by the vibrant colours she encountered at markets as a child, Noor’s fascination with art and experimentation began early. As time passed, she was influenced more by personal experiences than specific artists. “I initially pursued realism in my work, and was drawn to its technical challenge despite a latent appreciation for abstract art. Over time, I embraced bold colours and innovative techniques, which marked a significant evolution in my artistic style,” she says.
When asked about her dream collaborations, Noor names Vincent Van Gogh and Gerhard Richter. Van Gogh’s emotional depth and vivid landscapes resonate deeply with her, while Richter’s seamless blend of photorealism and abstraction continues to inspire her multifaceted approach to sketching.
Recognised as Bahrain’s first live fashion illustrator and first live wedding painter across the GCC, Noor attributes her popularity to her distinctive style and the enthusiastic recommendations of satisfied clients and admirers. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her artistic horizons through exploration of new mediums, international collaborations and mentorship initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of artists.
Noor’s sketches are characterised by a blend of realism, surrealism and abstract elements. Her ability to produce detailed fashion sketches in under eight minutes, as we witnessed firsthand at our event, showcases her proficiency and unique artistic flair.
“Early in my career, I faced challenges with the fast-paced demands of live sketching events,” she recounts. “However, through perseverance, innovation and commitment to my growth as an artist, I developed techniques to efficiently produce over 80 sketches per event.”
Reflecting on her most rewarding experiences, Noor highlights collaborations with prestigious international brands such as Bahrain Jewellery Centre (BJC), Gucci, YSL, Bvlgari and Fendi, as well as exhibitions across the GCC, the United States, Finland (through the Civilisations Exhibition) and Egypt. Her accolades include the Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa Global Award for Youth Creativity, underscoring her global recognition and impact in the art world.
Noor’s journey from inheriting a family talent to becoming an acclaimed sketch artist is a testament to her dedication and vision. Her impact on the global art community continues to grow, driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to artistic excellence.
“As an artist, my advice to aspiring creatives is to embrace your unique style and continually seek inspiration from your surroundings. Never shy away from experimenting with different techniques and mediums, as this will help you discover your true artistic voice. Persistence and practice are key—every sketch, every painting and every challenge you face will contribute to your growth. Lastly, always stay passionate and dedicated to your craft, for it is through passion that your art will truly resonate with others,” she says.
Noor’s artistic journey is not just a personal evolution but also a story of artistic perseverance and creativity. As she continues to push the boundaries of her craft, her aspirations to further elevate her art and inspire others serve as a beacon for the future of Bahraini artistry.
Follow Noor on Instagram using the handle @artistenoor for more.
