Drop in & Draw: Ephemera

Khalid Mezaina entered the art world working as a graphic designer and programme coordinator for UAE based organisations including Sharjah Art Foundation and Tashkeel. This proximity and integration in the arts community inspired him to pursue his own creative endeavours. In 2010, Khalid began his own personal practise, focusing on illustration and surface based design and art. Khalid actively participates in exhibitions, projects and residencies both in the UAE and abroad, and facilitates workshops for children and adults, sharing his knowledge on print based creative practises. Along with a BS in Visual Communication from the American University of Sharjah in 2006, Khalid graduated in 2018 from the Rhode Island School of Design, with an MFA in Textiles. His commissioned and self-initiated projects range from prints, installations and murals, to designs for publications, stationary, packaging, apparel and textiles. His works are a reflection of his influences and personal interests, as well as things that are on his mind – a nod to comic books, music and dance, traditional costumes and textiles from around the world, the impact of matriarchy in his life, and daily findings from around the city he calls home. Khalid hopes that his work reaches out to a wider audience that moves beyond gallery walls and exhibitions spaces, and puts a smile on people’s faces. www.khalidmezaina.blogspot.com @kmezaina (Instagram . Twitter)