Ahmed BaFadhl: From Civil Engineering to Creative Freedom
Ahmed BaFadhl’s journey began with a simple passion for art. While pursuing a degree in civil engineering, Ahmed often turned to graphic design and art as an escape from the rigors of academics. Sharing his daily creations, including charcoal sketches and spray-paint experiments, on Instagram, he gained recognition for his raw talent. It was a direct message from artist and photographer Humoud Mosabih that changed everything.
Their shared passion for art led to the formation of an art group in 2019. Though the group disbanded within a year, the experience ignited a deeper resolve in Ahmed. After graduating, Ahmed made the bold decision to step away from his engineering career to fully embrace his calling in the world of art and media.
Turning Challenges Into Opportunities
Starting out as an artist was no easy feat for Ahmed. Financial constraints, lack of professional tools, and working from a small room posed significant challenges. But Ahmed’s resilience and consistency paid off. He relied on university resources and student discounts to continue creating, even when his audience was limited.
Over time, Ahmed began showcasing his work at exhibitions, connecting with art hubs that provided resources and space. These connections eventually led him to establish AB Visuals, his very own creative studio. AB Visuals became a platform for Ahmed to merge his talents in photography, videography, graphic design, and digital painting, and collaborate with other creatives to produce innovative projects.
Inspiring Audiences Across the Globe
Ahmed’s art is more than just a visual experience; it is a universal language that connects people across cultures. Through exhibitions and social media, his work has reached audiences from Japan to Europe, sparking meaningful conversations and evoking emotions.
His proudest achievement is not just the recognition he’s earned but the connections he has forged through his artwork. Whether it’s inspiring someone to pick up a brush or preserving cultural narratives through art, Ahmed views his work as a means of building bridges across borders and generations.
A Journey Marked by Resilience
Ahmed’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. In 2022, he was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a condition that forced him to pause his work for almost a year. Hospitalized and unable to manage daily tasks, Ahmed felt like he had reached a breaking point. However, he used this time to grow mentally and emotionally.
Reading transformative books such as Atomic Habits and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People helped him redefine his goals. Once recovered, Ahmed came back stronger, pursuing new exhibitions and projects with renewed passion. This period taught him the importance of resilience and turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
Building a Legacy Through Art
Ahmed’s work is inspired by influential figures such as Humoud Mosabih, Jalal Luqman, and Sumayya Al Suwaidi. Jalal’s deeply emotional exhibition What the Fire Left Behind left a lasting impression on Ahmed, while Sumayya’s mentorship has helped him gain international exposure. These relationships, coupled with his personal determination, have shaped Ahmed’s artistic journey.
Now, Ahmed is focused on expanding his presence in the art and media industry. He is currently working on new pieces for upcoming exhibitions and a significant project in Dubai. Through his art, Ahmed aims to preserve cultural stories, evoke emotions, and leave a timeless legacy.
Redefining Success and Staying Motivated
For Ahmed, success is no longer about fame or financial gains alone. His definition of success has evolved to include meaningful connections, creative freedom, and the ability to invest in his personal passions. Balancing work with time for family, health, and personal growth is now his top priority.
Reflecting on his career, Ahmed advises his younger self and aspiring artists to trust their instincts and embrace setbacks as growth opportunities. “Don’t compare your journey to others,” he says. “Focus on consistency and value your time. Success will come when you stay true to your purpose.”
Paving the Way for Future Generations
Through AB Visuals and his personal projects, Ahmed envisions creating a platform that empowers emerging artists and celebrates the rich culture of the UAE. He hopes to be remembered as an artist who blended tradition with innovation, leaving a mark that inspires others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
For Ahmed BaFadhl, art is not just a profession; it is a way of life, a means to connect with the world, and a tool to leave behind a legacy that transcends time. Do follow him on Instagram.
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