Yasmine Amal
Artist.
Mediator.
Political scientist.
» Who are you and how did it all start?
I’m a self-taught artist born to Moroccan parents in Germany. Two years ago I began painting as a coping mechanism while working as a policy advisor, but it quickly became a way to reconcile and express the many roles I navigate in this society—such as being a daughter of the diaspora, an intersectional feminist, and a spiritual woman. Beyond this impact on myself, I saw through family and friends how art can transform society, inspiring me to explore its potential for collective change.
» How do your roots guide your creative process?
As part of my decolonization journey, I am reclaiming my indigenous North African roots —the Imazighen— through art. My paintings are inspired by the symbols and elements of my motherland, especially the ocean and land. I see it as my responsibility to continue the tradition and wisdom of my ancestors and honour their art. Looking back I realised, I somehow quickly found my signature style. It feels like all these colours and symbols were impatiently waiting inside me to be put on a canvas.
» What does resistance through art mean to you?
Taking space as a woman of color in a world that seeks to marginalize us is an act of resistance. My creativity is a form of defiance, reclaiming narratives and telling stories from my own perspective. Whether through singing, painting, or dancing, art becomes a way to push back against the dehumanization that our communities are facing. Today, my paintings allow me to reach more people than I ever could in my previous job, for which I am very grateful.
» What challenges come with maintaining authenticity in your work?
It is not easy to find places in which you can be unapologetically you, without compromising on your messages and identity. Tokenism is a widespread phenomenon, forcing us artists to adapt in order to maintain financial stability. Being a fellow in the Muslim-Jewish art residency by LABA Berlin, has encouraged me to express myself as a Muslima, something I have been holding back. People often think that I found myself through art, but I believe I’ve always known who I am — art just gave me the courage to express it. And I don’t want to minimize myself anymore.
» How do you create space for healing through art?
As a future ancestor, I recognize my responsibility to foster a society rooted in solidarity and empathy, contributing to the decolonization of our communities. My goal is to make art more accessible and include marginalized voices. By creating space for cross-cultural dialogue and collective healing, I aim to show how art can counter the effects of Eurocentric hyper-individualism. I harness this potential through creativity workshops and interreligious painting sessions, sharing the transformative power of art with others.
Do you want to know more about Yasmine’s work?
Go check out her socials:
Yasmine’s Instagram
Yasmine’s Website
