In a world often obsessed with rigid paths and perfect plans, Shatha Al Dafai is a beautiful reminder that creativity thrives in the unexpected. A former mechanical engineer turned full-time artist, Shatha's journey is one led by emotion, instinct, and a quiet boldness that runs through every line she draws. Her signature one-line art—minimal yet deeply human—has become a language of its own, resonating with collectors and creators alike.
We sat down with Shatha to learn more about her artistic evolution, inspirations, and how she’s blending personal expression with purposeful collaborations.
1. Your transition from mechanical engineering to art is fascinating. Did you always know you’d end up creating, or was it an unexpected shift?
It was definitely an unexpected shift. Art started as a personal outlet during stressful times — a way to express emotions I couldn't put into words. Over time, it became clear that this was more than just a hobby. I didn’t plan this path, but it unfolded naturally, and I’m grateful for where it has led me.
2. One-line art is deceptively simple yet deeply expressive. What was the first piece you created in this style, and how did it shape your artistic journey?
In the beginning, I used to draw a lot of faces in one continuous line, just for fun. That helped me build confidence in the style and pushed me to create my first line art faces collection: Adunbi, Gamba, Chinelo, and Ipyana. It became one of my most loved collections, and that’s when I realized how much people connect with this style.
3. If you could describe your art in three words, what would they be?
Emotional, thoughtful, connected.
4. You create jewelry, fashion items and wall art? What do you prefer working on and why?
Each medium has its own magic, but wall art will always be my favorite. It feels the most personal and reflective of who I am. Fashion and jewelry bring a different excitement, and turning an artwork into wearable pieces is such a beautiful process. It’s rewarding to see people wear something I’ve designed, but art on a wall has a timeless quality that resonates deeply with me.
5. Art can be deeply personal. Is there a piece you’ve created that holds a special meaning for you?
I feel connected to all of my artworks in different ways. One of my newest pieces, Soul Bound, means a lot to me. It shows two palm trees connected together and represents a strong emotional bond. It’s a simple artwork, but it carries a lot of feeling for me.
6. Who or what are your biggest artistic influences—whether from the art world, your culture, or daily life?
A big part of my inspiration comes from nature and emotions. I’m often influenced by how I feel and the quiet moments around me. Nature helps me slow down and reflect, and that shows up a lot in my work.
7. Let’s talk about your recent collaboration with Loch x drawdeck. What drew you to this project?
The fusion of art and sustainability truly spoke to me. Loch’s dedication to reducing single-use plastic while promoting conscious living aligns perfectly with my values. Partnering with them for Earth Day feels like a beautiful way to celebrate both creativity and the planet, blending purpose with art in the most meaningful way.
8. Did you approach this collaboration differently compared to your personal work? If so, how?
Yes, in some ways. With personal work, I follow emotion — it’s intuitive and raw. But with a collaboration, I’m more mindful of the message and the audience. I still keep it authentic, but I think more about how it will be experienced by others. That said, I try to keep the essence of my work intact, so it still feels like me — just with more intention behind it.
9. Have you seen a change in the regions art industry? How do you think it’s evolving?
Absolutely. The art scene in the region is growing and becoming more open and diverse. There’s a greater appreciation now for individuality and local voices. More platforms are supporting artists, and communities are forming around creativity. It’s encouraging to see people starting to value art not just as decoration, but as a form of expression and connection.
![shatha al dafai holding an ipad showcasing her artwork]()
Photo by Maryam Alharthi || @genial.meem
10. Any advice for emerging local artists looking to find their voice in the regions art scene?
Start by creating for yourself, stay consistent and the more honest your work is, the more it will resonate. Don’t be afraid to try new things or put yourself out there. The art scene is ready for new talents, and there's space for everyone.
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Artist Spotlight - Shatha Al Dafai
In a world often obsessed with rigid paths and perfect plans, Shatha Al Dafai is a beautiful reminder that creativity thrives in the unexpected. A former mechanical engineer turned full-time artist, Shatha's journey is one led by emotion, instinct, and a quiet boldness that runs through every line she draws. Her signature one-line art—minimal yet deeply human—has become a language of its own, resonating with collectors and creators alike.
We sat down with Shatha to learn more about her artistic evolution, inspirations, and how she’s blending personal expression with purposeful collaborations.
1. Your transition from mechanical engineering to art is fascinating. Did you always know you’d end up creating, or was it an unexpected shift?
It was definitely an unexpected shift. Art started as a personal outlet during stressful times — a way to express emotions I couldn't put into words. Over time, it became clear that this was more than just a hobby. I didn’t plan this path, but it unfolded naturally, and I’m grateful for where it has led me.
2. One-line art is deceptively simple yet deeply expressive. What was the first piece you created in this style, and how did it shape your artistic journey?
In the beginning, I used to draw a lot of faces in one continuous line, just for fun. That helped me build confidence in the style and pushed me to create my first line art faces collection: Adunbi, Gamba, Chinelo, and Ipyana. It became one of my most loved collections, and that’s when I realized how much people connect with this style.
3. If you could describe your art in three words, what would they be?
Emotional, thoughtful, connected.
4. You create jewelry, fashion items and wall art? What do you prefer working on and why?
Each medium has its own magic, but wall art will always be my favorite. It feels the most personal and reflective of who I am. Fashion and jewelry bring a different excitement, and turning an artwork into wearable pieces is such a beautiful process. It’s rewarding to see people wear something I’ve designed, but art on a wall has a timeless quality that resonates deeply with me.
5. Art can be deeply personal. Is there a piece you’ve created that holds a special meaning for you?
I feel connected to all of my artworks in different ways. One of my newest pieces, Soul Bound, means a lot to me. It shows two palm trees connected together and represents a strong emotional bond. It’s a simple artwork, but it carries a lot of feeling for me.
6. Who or what are your biggest artistic influences—whether from the art world, your culture, or daily life?
A big part of my inspiration comes from nature and emotions. I’m often influenced by how I feel and the quiet moments around me. Nature helps me slow down and reflect, and that shows up a lot in my work.
7. Let’s talk about your recent collaboration with Loch x drawdeck. What drew you to this project?
The fusion of art and sustainability truly spoke to me. Loch’s dedication to reducing single-use plastic while promoting conscious living aligns perfectly with my values. Partnering with them for Earth Day feels like a beautiful way to celebrate both creativity and the planet, blending purpose with art in the most meaningful way.
8. Did you approach this collaboration differently compared to your personal work? If so, how?
Yes, in some ways. With personal work, I follow emotion — it’s intuitive and raw. But with a collaboration, I’m more mindful of the message and the audience. I still keep it authentic, but I think more about how it will be experienced by others. That said, I try to keep the essence of my work intact, so it still feels like me — just with more intention behind it.
9. Have you seen a change in the regions art industry? How do you think it’s evolving?
Absolutely. The art scene in the region is growing and becoming more open and diverse. There’s a greater appreciation now for individuality and local voices. More platforms are supporting artists, and communities are forming around creativity. It’s encouraging to see people starting to value art not just as decoration, but as a form of expression and connection.
10. Any advice for emerging local artists looking to find their voice in the regions art scene?
Start by creating for yourself, stay consistent and the more honest your work is, the more it will resonate. Don’t be afraid to try new things or put yourself out there. The art scene is ready for new talents, and there's space for everyone.