I am an Egyptian-American Artist, Writer, and Tech Entrepreneur. I live and work out of my home studio in Redmond, Washington. I have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). I spent over 10 years in the tech industry before I decided to pursue my passion for the arts and creativity. I wrote a fantasy novel that is (still) in the process of being published, created an injection tracking app to help individuals with diabetes, MS, RA... etc, and I'm now working as an artist full time; selling my art online and in person at art shows and festivals. 

I'm neurodivergent, I have a disability, and I'm a woman of color. The challenges life has sent my way have made me who I am, and I'm proud to be fighting for my dream. 

I always used to say that one day I will retire from tech to paint, write a fantasy novel, and learn to play the guitar. Two out of three ain't bad, and I'm not even close to retirement yet! My current goal is to make this art business thrive so it can be my main source of income, which was already incredibly difficult in this world, but now even more so with the post-covid economy. 

Why I make art

To me, what makes something "art" is all about evoking feelings. Art makes me feel calm, inspired, and happy, whether I'm viewing it or making it. Painting and making jewelry have been hobbies of mine for 18+ years now, but after leaving my role in the bustle of the tech world, I've come to realize what it is that ties all of my passions together: I love making things! I am passionate about painting, writing, and building software that helps people. That is the beauty of having such a diverse set of skills - I get to create in so many different ways and enjoy them all.

I have always loved painting, and oil paint is my medium of choice. It offers so much flexibility and the ability to blend beautiful color right there on the canvas, expressing my mood in the strokes and colors. As I began to rediscover my love for painting, I also found its healing abilities (putting aside the fact that most paints are actually toxic, that is!) Painting allows me to let go of the world and any worries clouding my mind. Everything gives way to the colors that come from within as I plop them right down onto my canvas. Every painting is unique, and gives me a sense of accomplishment when it's done. I am endlessly curious, and I love learning, discovering and inventing new techniques. I lose myself in painting, the way I would with a good book. Painting soothes whatever ails me and has helped immensely with my mental health.

Due to my disability, I sometimes can't paint as much as I would like. But when I can paint, I throw myself into it with gusto. I am so grateful that I have my own studio at home. I now have a comfortable chair, an organized set up, and plenty of storage space for all my supplies and paintings.

I sometimes wonder whether it was worth it to give up a coveted, well-paying role in the tech industry, but the next moment arrives with a new chance to create something wonderful, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to express myself. I plan to make the best of it and spend all my time creating things that make other people feel the way art makes me feel.

I deeply appreciate all of my patrons, and welcome your feedback and suggestions, so feel free to contact me.

Thanks for reading this far. Now go buy some art!