Vectorising dreams

Hajer Ghareeb’s interest with art was sparked with the influence of her mother and uncle, both were talented artists growing up as a kid, she learned to experiment with their art supplies. 

Speaking to DT News, Hajer Ghareeb said, “Learning design elements along with how to digitize my drawing entered me into the magical realm of vectors. It encouraged me and gave me a chance to explore a new and exciting field that in which I would eventually find my greatest enjoyment.”

However, in her early high school years Hajer started exploring her interests and when she discovered design in its many art forms she was instantly in love. She first started out volunteering extensively at a nonprofit organization on numerous projects during her college years. Once she had acquired her degree, she was able to go for practical experience with one of the projects in Mideast Tunes.

“The job combined two of my favourite interests, music and design - giving me a chance to work with and support some incredibly talented musicians in the MENA region, especially local Bahraini bands, as well as contributing to the project with my design work.

Hajer is currently working as a designer at Obai & Hill. Talking about the job, she said, “Working at an agency is clearly very different and it has made me more focused in strengthening my knowledge and design skills within the field such as with branding, product design, and print.”

Hajer is also currently volunteering to support her favourite Bahraini death metal band, Smouldering in Forgotten.  She helps with enhancing their online presence and creating designs in order to promote the group.

“I strongly feel that local talents should be supported. There are a lot of amazing artists from different creative fields on the island that deserve to be recognized for their mind-blowing works,” she said.

Hajer also plans to create and complete her illustration series for everyone to see.

Visual problem-solver

What is graphic design to you?

“I think of graphic design as a visual problem-solver. If you advance towards design as a problem-solving tool, you will be able to rationalize your work by paying attention to detail and have a more significant effect. It is a powerful tool that enhances how you can communicate with other people, serving to get your message across in a way that is
not only influential but beautiful as well.”

Your message to other designers?

“I would like to say that developing your own style and sticking to it is vital in our industry, people will definitely notice you for it. Experiment a lot and go easy on yourself. Never compare yourself or try to be like others or you’ll just end up getting lost in the shuffle. Have an open mind, thick skin, and never stop learning. Failure teaches you more than success.”