"Peace, Love, and Pomegranates" by Sadagat Aliyeva

Enjoy a collection of digital illustrations by Sadagat Aliyeva.

Artist Statement: 
At the age of 38, my life suddenly changed. When I moved to the United States in 2004, I had two MA’s in theater from my birth country, Azerbaijan. Neither of those worked for me here in Iowa. I had three little ones to raise, a new language to learn and a completely different lifestyle to get used to. Most importantly, I had to find something to do with my life. At that time, I had no idea what it would be. I had liked drawing, more like doodling, since I was a little girl. Never before had I thought of myself as an artist; I’ve only loved theater for so long. In 2008 I went back to school again to learn skills that might be useful in this new-to-me country and graduated from the graphic design program at DMACC in 2012. I remember my first digital illustration class; and how much I hated it. It felt like cheating to me. “This is not art,” I thought to myself. Little did I know that someday I would not only fall in love with it, I’d be addicted to it. It didn’t happen until I got my first iPad Pro in 2019 and started playing with Procreate.Yet again it wasn’t anything serious for me. In January 2021, I quit my full time job at the library and stayed at home for a while to get my sanity back together and answer the strong call from within. During that time I drew regularly. With these daily practices I got better and better every day. Slowly I began feeling more confident about my art. Over the years, I have watched many youtube videos and have observed other digital illustrators on Instagram and Pinterest. Although I love all the tricks and techniques they use in their illustrations, in my own art I’m more drawn to the simplicity of drawing. I like earthy and natural lines. I now realize that my art is naturally drawn to my own culture and ancient Azerbaijani miniature art. Today creating art is not only a way of expressing myself, it also helps me to heal my anxiety and depression. I dearly appreciate this opportunity West Des Moines Public Library created for the artists like me and I hope that you will enjoy this gallery.
Additionally, please check out my website below and leave me a note, a feedback about your thoughts on my art.

With Great Love,
Sadagat Aliyeva
https://www.sadagataliyeva.com
sadagataliyeva@gmail.com