Fahad Sinan Interview | Respect the Dreamer
Fahad Sinan is a Brooklyn-based graphic designer and illustrator who primarily works with ink, watercolor, and digital painting. Drawing inspiration from the unknown and an imagined future, his art explores the intersection of perceived reality and futuristic landscapes. Influenced by the urban environment of New York, Sinan’s work delves into the instability of current and future worlds, blending science fiction elements with existential themes. His creations reflect a continuous evolution of existence, merging human, animal, and technological forms in a universe that is both familiar and enigmatic.
What inspired you to pursue your dream, and how did it all begin?
Drawing and making things have been a part of my life since I was a child. Throughout my childhood, my parents fed my curiosity, and as I grew into adulthood, I began channeling all that I had absorbed into pretty much everything I do. Drawing, painting, and designing are not just acts for me, they are ways of living. I consider every moment, every breath I take to be an opportunity to give something back to the universe.
Can you share a defining moment in your journey that shaped your perspective and fueled your passion?
A pivotal moment for me occurred during college when I was pursuing a degree in Communication Design. It was then that I had a vision of the kind of art I wanted to create. My work has since centered around exploring our relationship with technology and the cosmos, delving into psychological and philosophical themes.
How do you handle setbacks and keep pushing forward in the pursuit of your dreams?
I actually welcome setbacks as they always offer valuable lessons. Whenever I encounter challenges, I retreat to my sketchbook, using it as a tool to reflect and grow.
Are there specific individuals who have inspired you along the journey?
Over the years, I’ve drawn inspiration from a diverse array of sources, including Neil Gaiman's The Sandman series, Carl Sagan's cosmic perspectives, Alan Moore’s imaginative storytelling, and Sufi spirituality. This eclectic mix has helped me create worlds where spirituality, science fiction, and philosophy intertwine seamlessly.
How do you maintain a balance between pursuing your dreams and handling everyday responsibilities?
Setting boundaries is crucial for me. I make sure to allocate time for self-care and take breaks when needed. Creativity flows both in my professional work and personal projects, though there are periods when I intentionally step away from creating.
How do you overcome self-doubt and stay confident in your abilities?
When I’m working on a project, I often take a step back to conduct research, explore other works, and engage in discussions with fellow creatives. Navigating self-doubt is a part of the process, but these strategies help me stay grounded and inspired.
Can you share a memorable success story or achievement that resulted from your determination?
I had a solo exhibition that I personally curated and installed at Port Authority that was up from June through July. It was the first time that I had been able to exhibit my work in the manner I had envisioned. As a result of that experience, I have gained the motivation to push myself even further to create something even better.
In what ways do you stay motivated during challenging times?
Over the years I’ve established different avenues for myself to remain motivated and inspired during challenging times. My main motivation is to keep chipping away at my larger vision, no matter how slowly. In an ever-growing artificial world, it's the only thing I can truly call real. No matter how challenging the times can be, I just keep reminding myself how important that is.
What dream are you living right now?
One of my most recent successes was my solo exhibit at Port Authority. Putting together the display instantly inspired me and sparked new ideas for an even grander multimedia exhibition. This project will unify all my ideas and skills into a cohesive vision. I am slowly working on this vision and you can follow my journey on my Instagram account at @cosmicdogcraft.
What advice would you give to someone with a dream?
If you have a dream you're passionate about, keep striving to make it a reality. In this ever-evolving world, your dream is one of the few things you have full control over.
Photography credit: Nadir Khan Durrani
IG: @dethnoir
Connect
Website: http://www.fahadsinan.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cosmicdogcraft/
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