Life
Welcome to our exclusive interview with Future Bedouin, the avant-garde AI artist whose creations draw inspiration from the rich cultural history and heritage of the UAE.
With a blend of cutting-edge technology and deep appreciation for tradition, Future Bedouin’s art transcends boundaries, inviting viewers on a journey through time and culture.
Join us as we delve into the creative process and vision behind this innovative artist’s work.
What does the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
I simply handle emails and any pending tasks before my daughter wakes up.
What inspired you to blend traditional art forms with technology in your artistic journey?
Living in the UAE for the past couple of years, I’ve observed the cultural melting pot and the influence of Arab culture and heritage. I’ve always wanted to blend this with modern technologies and futuristic thinking. That’s what Future Bedouin does.
Can you elaborate on how your fascination with Bedouin culture led to the creation of Future Bedouin?
To me, it was always fascinating how quickly the tribes transitioned from desert life to the most modern and advanced giga cities, with Dubai as a world leader. Initially, when I started creating, I just wanted to share my personal view and the way I see the surroundings through the eyes of an expat. I never intended Future Bedouin to be a way of living, but it quickly became a full-time job.
Could you walk us through your creative process in crafting otherworldly content, such as your euphoria-inducing physical installations and phygital artwork?
It usually begins with an observation or a thought. I often make sketches or clay models that I later transform into 3D models. Then, we spend countless hours rendering and photoshopping. Sometimes, I use artificial intelligence for the conceptual stage, but I prefer old-school tools. When it comes to physical projects, we translate the 3D designs into material breakdowns, mockups, prototypes, and actual fabrication.
How does the rich cultural history of the UAE influence your work, especially in exploring the interplay between past and future themes involving Arab heritage?
I feel that Arab heritage, with its love for nature, symbols, and poetry, is an endless source of inspiration for me. Everywhere in the region, you look around, and there is an element, a person, a tree, or a building that inspires me to create artwork.
As someone who transitions seamlessly between the digital and physical realms, what challenges do you encounter in preserving your designs’ essence during fabrication?
Even with the achievements of the 21st century, I still face a lot of material limitations. My designs are so surreal that sometimes it’s just impossible to build them. While 3D printing has improved the process, there are still areas I can’t explore due to the lack of technology.
With AI constantly evolving, how does it influence your artistic style, and how do you integrate new tools and techniques into your creative process?
While AI can offer exciting possibilities, I focus on how it can enhance rather than replace my creativity. I might use AI tools for inspiration or to experiment with new ideas, but ultimately, my artisticstyle remains rooted in my own vision and expression.
Could you share insights into your upcoming collaborations with local and international brands in the luxury market?
I can’t share too much due to the sensitive nature of those projects, but I can say that there will be two big projects in the US, including a collaboration with a world-renowned fashion brand house. Additionally, there are plenty of projects (both digital and physical) in the region, so stay tuned.
How do you draw inspiration from the desert landscapes, oasis, and traditional Bedouin textiles and architecture in your artwork, and how do you infuse them with futuristic elements?
I blend desert beauty and Bedouin culture with futuristic ideas in my art. By mixing traditional elements like textiles and architecture with modern touches, I create something new and exciting. It’s like combining the old with the new to make something fresh and different.
What are your thoughts on the intersection of AI and art? Do you believe AI has the potential to replace human artists, and how do you see the role of human artistry evolving in the age of technological advancements?
I don’t think AI can replace human artists. AI might help in some ways, but it can’t capture human creativity and emotion. Our art comes from our experiences, feelings, and imagination. Even with technology, human artists will always bring something unique and personal to their work.
Looking ahead, how do you envision Future Bedouin contributing to the evolving artistic landscape, and what can we expect from you in the future?
I am currently working on even more immersive art installations (both temporary and permanent), and at the same time, I am preparing a limited edition of oil paintings and bronze sculptures as there has been insane demand from my collectors. Then, vacation!
This is The Creativity Issue – where do you find your creative inspiration from?
The desert landscapes, traditional textiles, architecture, and the stories of the Bedouin people all fuel my imagination. Their timeless beauty and unique traditions inspire me to create art that pays homage to this rich cultural tapestry while also exploring futuristic themes and ideas.
