Nawras (Sarah) Salih is a talented Graphic Designer from Canada, combining her passion for creating with her interest in technology to make engaging artwork. Her unique approach to design allows Nawras to think outside the box and create truly original art. Her images are an inspirational starting point for many Design Space projects. In this artist spotlight, we discover Nawras’ creative journey, her digital design process, and some of what inspires her artwork.
How did you find Cricut, and why did you decide to join the Contributing Artist Program?
A friend recommended Cricut to me during the pandemic in 2020. Since then, I have been addicted to creating designs for Cricut users. I joined the Contributing Artist Program because Cricut is one of the largest cutting machine companies in the world. It brings me joy to witness crafters use my designs to create items they cherish and form precious memories in the process.
Where did your artistic journey begin?
Since childhood, I have always been passionate about art. I remember creating my very first design at the age of 11 and feeling a sense of excitement and joy as I brought my vision to life. As I grew older, my love for art only grew, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in a creative field. In my teen years, I became interested in computers and technology. So, I decided to combine both worlds by becoming a graphic designer. In 2014, I graduated with honors as a graphic designer. Since then, I have continued to expand my skills by exploring new techniques and styles. I always push myself to grow and evolve as an artist.
What does creativity mean to you?
Creativity is a passion that fuels me; I’m constantly inspired with new ideas and subjects to create, and this experience makes me feel alive.
Who or what inspires you to create, and why?
My inspiration comes from a variety of sources in my daily life. It could be something as simple as watching a dog playing at a park, going on a road trip, or enjoying a nice cup of coffee. Conversations with friends and loved ones can also spark ideas and inspire me to create. I see art as a diary that records my daily life. The small things and people around me are key to unlocking my creativity.
What is your favorite type of craft?
My favorite type of craft is iron-on and vinyl. I like to wear shirts and carry tote bags with my designs on them. I like to show my creativity everywhere I go.
What word would you use to describe your design style?
Graphic – I enjoy experimenting with different colors and typography to create clean, modern, and bold designs.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is starting my own business as a digital artist and becoming one of Cricut’s Contributing Artists. It has been a long journey filled with hard work and dedication, but seeing my designs come to life and being able to share them with a wide audience has been incredibly rewarding.
What makes you laugh the most?
I find that watching funny animal videos never fails to bring a smile to my face and lift my spirits. Whether it’s a silly cat chasing its tail or a dog reacting to weird noises, there’s something about the pure joy and spontaneity of animals that is incredibly infectious.
How would your friends describe you?
A strong-minded, smart mouthed person, who is always late.
Are you a clean or messy person?
As a neurodiverse person with ADHD, it can be challenging to maintain a consistently organized environment. While I may not always be the cleanest person, I see my neurodiversity and ADHD as a superpower that fuels my creativity. The unique way my brain processes information allows me to approach things from a different perspective and come up with unique and different ideas. So, while I may not always have a tidy workspace, I believe that my neurodiversity is an essential part of who I am and a driving force behind my artistic abilities.
Continue to follow along on Nawras’ artistic journey and explore more of her artwork by visiting her Design Space profile. Prepare to be inspired by Nawras’ talent and passion for art. We are grateful to have her in the Contributing Artist Program, and we know you will enjoy her art as much as we do.
Show us what you make with Nawras’ designs, and make sure to tag #cricut on social.
Interested in seeing more Contributing Artist images and designs? Check out all of our artists in Cricut Design Space.