Kareem Moumina, a Filipino-Arab-American artist, has been making waves in the art world with his vibrant and introspective paintings. Born in Washington D.C., Moumina’s life has been a tapestry of diverse cultural influences, which he skillfully weaves into his art. His father is from Saudi Arabia, where Moumina was raised, and his mother is from the Philippines. His journey as an artist is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of cultural heritage.
Early Life and Inspiration
Moumina’s early exposure to art was largely self-directed. He began painting as a child, finding solace in the creative process without formal training until later in his life. His experiences in Saudi Arabia and the Philippines have deeply influenced his work, as he often incorporates elements of these cultures into his paintings. For instance, his artwork often reflects the tropical scenery of the Philippines, a place that holds a special significance for him due to his mother’s heritage.
There’s two elements that I cherish the most and that’s integrity and diversity and I aim to promote these features together while inspiring my peers especially ones that come from different backgrounds and just by having Arab and Filipino origins it allowed me to obtain a mix of cultures and experiences and beliefs. – Kareem Moumina
Artistic Style and Themes
Moumina’s paintings are characterized by their dreamlike quality, often recalling moments he has envisioned in his dreams. He employs shiny colors to create abstract forms that reflect his imagination, emphasizing the process of mindfulness and action in his work. This approach allows the brush to guide the creation of art, rather than forcing it into predetermined forms.
His large-scale landscape paintings, in particular, are notable for their fusion of childhood memories with contemporary artistic expression. These works not only showcase his technical skill but also serve as a window into his personal experiences and cultural background.
Career Highlights
One of Moumina’s notable achievements was his senior art show at Suffield Academy in January 2020, where he showcased his paintings alongside fellow artists Oscar Ceria and John Zhang. This exhibition marked an important milestone in his artistic journey, highlighting his unique style and thematic focus.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Moumina continued to find solace in art, stating that it was more important to him than ever during that time. His work served as a creative outlet, allowing him to navigate the challenges of social distancing and isolation.
Impact and Future Directions
Moumina’s artwork represents a blend of cultural influences and personal narratives, making him a compelling figure in contemporary art. His ability to evoke emotions and memories through his paintings has resonated with audiences, and his future projects are eagerly anticipated.
As he continues to explore the intersection of culture, memory, and creativity, Moumina’s contributions to the art world are likely to grow in significance. His story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art to connect us across cultures and experiences.
Note: Kareem Moumina is in Hong Kong. He is one of 70+ Filipino contemporary artists participating in “Unity in Diversity: Filipino Artists Across Borders,” exhibition, organized by Galleria Camaya. The show opened on February 26 and will be on display until March 3, 2025. https://galleriacamaya.art/filipino-artists-redefine-identity-and-culture-in-groundbreaking-hong-kong-exhibition/
