In the rich world of art and design, some talents know how to stand out through their passion, creativity and determination. Sarah NAJI is one of these talents. A multidisciplinary artist, her unique career combines traditional craftsmanship with new digital design technologies.
How did you discover your passion for crafts and crafts?
I Grew Up with a Father Craftsman Jack-of-All-Trades and My Mother Practicing Her Art in the Field of Henna (Temporary Arabic tattoo) and of the Arabic calligraphy.
Why did you choose to specialize in signs and signage?
I like to express my creativity by making signs that reflect my ideas.
Can you share a striking anecdote or a project that you are particularly proud of during your work with O'tacos or Fortis Immo Paris?
During my work with O'tacos, I was proud to design and manufacture the signs all over France for 2 years. Nobody knew that a 19-year-old apprentice made them. It was a memorable project that strengthened my skills and my passion for design.
What prompted you to become a freelancer? What are the challenges and benefits of this decision?
After completing my apprenticeship at the end of my 20s, I decided to become a freelancer as a Graphic Designer and Illustrator. I wanted to be independent, learn by myself and discover my limits. This decision allows me to develop my skills and to work with different types of customers. In addition, I have the freedom to manage my schedule and choose projects that best fit my interests and values.
How did you develop your sense of customer service while working as a freelancer?
Freelancing allowed me to work with a variety of clients. As a result, I have always focused on understanding the specific needs of each client by putting myself in their shoes. I take a personalized approach to each project. As a freelancer, I worked with unique clients. So I had to meet their unique requirements.
How does your background in crafts and crafts influence your approach to web design and graphics?
My background in crafts and crafts has a profound influence on my approach to web design and graphics. Thanks to this training, I am able to visualize the material, whether for printing, signs or screen printing, which allows me to better design my creations. I can immediately imagine how the design will stand out on the chosen material.
Why did you decide to train in web design and graphics?
I decided to train in web design and graphic design because I wanted to broaden my artistic skills and create visually captivating designs for the digital world. My experience in crafts and crafts allowed me to develop a keen sense of creativity and materiality, and I wanted to bring these unique qualities to the fields of web design and graphic design.
What do you hope to bring to these fields with your experience in crafts and crafts?
With my experience in crafts and crafts, I hope to bring an innovative approach and a different artistic sensibility to the fields of web design and graphic design. I want to create designs that take into account the physical characteristics of the material and that adapt perfectly to the chosen supports. This will allow me to provide unique and aesthetic visual solutions for my clients, combining creativity and traditional artistic techniques with the demands of the digital world.
What inspires you in your work?
What inspires me in my work is to mix my art with different cultures and countries. As a Moroccan woman, I like to create designs that blend harmoniously with influences from Japan, France, and other backgrounds. This cultural diversity nourishes my creativity and allows me to bring a unique touch to my creations. It is a real enrichment to be able to explore and integrate various artistic elements into my work, which gives life to authentic and inspiring designs.
Are there artists or designers that you particularly admire?
Yes, there are several artists and designers that I particularly admire. Among them, Sara Arabi, a Moroccan artist whose work with traditional Moroccan mosaics I really like. His art is imbued with a rich culture and a captivating aesthetic. René Gruau Is an Italian artist that I also admire, especially for his pictorial fashion illustrations. His work inspires me enormously, and his talent for capturing beauty and elegance in his creations is remarkable. Then there is Saul Bass, an American graphic designer famous for his work in the film industry. Her posters are iconic and her unique style fascinates me. Her use of shapes and colors creates powerful visual compositions that have incredible visual resonance.
Can you tell us about a project that you are currently working on or that you are considering for the future?
Currently, I am preparing an exciting project for the future. Starting in September, I will leave the freelance status to go back to school. My objective is to graduate from a Bac+2 graphic designer and to acquire new skills, in order to be able to realize my ambition to become a gaming graphic designer in the world of video games. My ambition is to save money to achieve my ultimate dream: to work as a graphic designer in the video game industry. I want to become a gaming designer, create incredible visual worlds and contribute to the immersive experience of players. In this perspective, I am saving up to join a gaming school thanks to the work-study program that I am going to do. This project marks a new and exciting stage in my career.
What advice would you give to someone looking for a career similar to yours in crafts and design?
My advice is to never give up, regardless of your financial situation, gender barriers, racism, or challenges you face. As a woman, I have faced a lot of obstacles, and my dyslexia has always been a challenge that beset me, but I have never stopped moving forward. Remain persistent and believe in your potential. Despite the difficulties, keep moving forward, learning and growing in this field. If I have managed to move forward despite these adversities, you can also succeed and realize your dreams in crafts and design. Regardless of your grade level (middle school, high school or other), I am available to answer all your questions and help you get started in this field.
Sarah NAJI — Graphic Designer & Illustrator • Lyon
Portfolio: najigraphiste.bookfolio.fr
