Voices of Creativity
Hear the artist share her journey, challenges, and definitions of success
Nasrah Nefer
The German-Egyptian artist, born in Heidelberg, studied art in Italy and Germany before pursuing degrees in Egyptology, Islamic studies, and archaeology. With a background in contemporary and Egyptian dance, she has taught and performed internationally. In Bonn, she founded "Ya Habibi," an oriental shop and event bistro. Her artwork, featured in international exhibitions and publications, has won numerous awards. In 2020, she co-founded N A S Art and in 2024, launched Lumen Art Gallery with Elke Lina Krüger to connect global artists.
A Journey of Expression: From Dance to Canvas
The Origins of Artistic Passion
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For this artist, painting began as a personal sanctuary—a way to process emotions and maintain a private space amidst life’s chaos. She recalls, “It belonged only to me and was a protected space in my inner world.” Her journey to sharing her art, however, was inspired by her experiences on international dance stages. Dance gave her the self-confidence to bring her art to the world, turning the end of her stage career into a new beginning with painting.
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Overcoming Challenges: A Creative Endeavor
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Throughout her artistic journey, challenges have shaped her resilience. One particularly demanding project tested her limits: collaborating with a renowned violinist to transform her home. The project spanned two years, during which she designed spiral staircases, parquet floors, and filled the home with custom artworks—from painted porcelain to wooden furniture. “It was a strenuous but also very intense and inspiring time,” she reflects, illustrating how challenges can push creativity to new heights.
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Milestones and Proud Moments
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The artist’s journey is marked by moments of triumph, from her debut solo performance before 20,000 people to her first major solo exhibition. Most recently, receiving a heartfelt review for her work in connection with an award deeply moved her. Each of these milestones reflects the joy and pride in her evolving creative expression.
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Artistic Evolution: A Lifelong Exploration
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Her style has grown through experimentation and curiosity. Early in her career, she explored various techniques—turning even kitchen tools like wire spatulas into creative instruments. Over time, she discovered her unique voice while continuing to embrace new methods. “Art is a journey that goes on and never ends,” she explains, underscoring her commitment to growth and discovery.
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Lessons from Setbacks
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Setbacks, though difficult, have proven invaluable. She learned that art cannot be rushed and often requires patience or a fresh perspective. Without strong networks to market one’s work, additional skills are essential. “Making art may make the soul happy, but in order to live as an artist, the art has to be shown to the world,” she emphasizes, highlighting the need for balance between creativity and exposure.
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Staying Authentic in the Art World
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Remaining true to her vision is paramount. While acknowledging the pressures of the art market, she believes that adapting to external expectations would compromise authenticity. “Art is about expressing one’s visions authentically. Adaptation would mean cutting back, and at most, you would lose your credibility,” she asserts. For her, being an artist is an unchanging state of being, defined by a steadfast commitment to her path.
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Sources of Support and Inspiration
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Her teachers, friends, and supporters have played pivotal roles in her journey, encouraging her in moments of doubt. Additionally, inspiration flows from within, as she describes her soul as “always active in inner images, speaking to me.” These inner visions fuel her creativity, driving her to share her art with the world.
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Success Redefined
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For this artist, success is deeply personal. It begins with the joy of completing a piece and extends to the emotions it evokes in viewers. The ultimate validation, however, comes when her art finds a home. “When a picture is sold, it means my inner world and its expression is welcomed by another person, and with that, my soul message begins its journey,” she says, encapsulating the fulfillment of creating and sharing art.