Today we have the pleasure to introduce you to Amro Arida, Boston-based interdisciplinary artist. Amro studied Graphic Design in Syria before migrating to the US to start a career in Art Direction. To enhance his practice, Amro taught himself Animation, Illustration, Photography and Filmmaking. His fluency in visual expression guides him in his exploration of these seemingly separate genres.

Mathqaf: Nice to meet you Amro! Who are you?
Amro: I consider myself to be an open minded interdisciplinary artist who’s always trying to learn, grow and create new connections.

Mathqaf: Where and what did you study?
Amro: I studied Graphic Design in Syria

Mathqaf: How do you work?
Amro: My workflow changes depending on the nature of the project. Being an interdisciplinary creative requires me to create a unique framework for each project. Usually the pattern is similar though, and it follows this order: Seed of an Idea ► Research ► Create ► Iterate ► Create ► Iterate ► Share.

Mathqaf: What do you listen to when you work?
Amro: I listen to a variety of different genres. Hiphop, Jazz, Classical, Arab Indie and house. I listen to Shkoon a lot.

Mathqaf: What themes do you pursue?
Amro: I try not to limit myself to any particular themes, but recently themes like memory, trauma and transformation have emerged from my childhood.

Mathqaf: What work do you most enjoy doing?
Amro: Recently I’ve been enjoying making short films that are inspired by my own life and memories.

Mathqaf: How has your practice changed over time?
Amro: My practice evolves and changes slowly as I’m gaining new knowledge and learning new skills. For instance, when I started making films, I was using stock music and now I’m able to produce my own compositions, which has enabled me to be more expressive.

Mathqaf: Describe a real-life situation that inspired you.
Amro: A couple of years ago, I traveled to Reyhanlı in Turkey to make a short documentary about Karam House, which is a safe space designed for Syrian refugee youth – where they can learn and grow. I was inspired by the students’ hard work and commitment to making the world a better place.

Mathqaf: What is your dream project?
Amro: There are many, but one would be a feature film that tackles the themes of war and migration.

Mathqaf: What do you do outside your practice?
Amro: I like to read, meditate, workout, cook, watch movies and spend time with my girlfriend and loved ones.

Mathqaf: Lastly, why do you do what you do?
Amro: Engrossing myself in the creative process makes me present and when I’m present, I’m able to connect with the world around me, and that ultimately makes me happy.

Check out Amro’s Website here, as well as his IG, YouTube and Behance profiles.