Hi, I’m Anab, the artist behind Anabcrafts.
I’m a multidisciplinary artist of Somali heritage, and my work is a reflection of the things that inspire me, the way I see the world, and the questions I continue to explore about identity and belonging.
I graduated from Manchester School of Art with a BA in Product design and crafts in 2022. Since then, I’ve continued developing my own visual language, bringing together surrealism and Renaissance-inspired influences to create work that feels both familiar and imagined.
I particularly love painting portraits and landscapes. For me, they are more than simply subjects to paint as they give me a way to explore ideas of identity, memory, belonging and imagination.
I’m interested in creating work where reality and imagination can exist alongside each other, allowing the viewer to interpret and connect with the work in their own way.
At the heart of this Photograph is a captivating ceramic sculpture that merges the surrealism of human forms with the intricate beauty of nature. The piece invites viewers to explore a dreamlike realm where human bodies and portraits are seamlessly intertwined with natural elements. The sculpture evokes a profound sense of oneness with the natural world, drawing the audience into a contemplative dialogue about our intrinsic connection to the environment. The fluidity of the forms and the delicate details of flora and fauna embedded within the human figures create a harmonious blend of the organic and the fantastical, offering a mesmerizing visual experience that transcends the boundaries of reality.
Discover the essence of AnabCrafts through exhibitions that celebrate the profound connections between nature, humanity, and heritage. A notable degree show featured a series of sculptural works exploring the intricate relationship between people and the natural world. Each sculpture, paired with poetry, weaves a narrative that resonates deeply, inviting reflection and connection. Another highlight is the painting Hooyo Dee Adunkaa, proudly exhibited at a hometown gallery. This vibrant piece honors Somali heritage, blending color and form to celebrate ancestral stories and cultural pride. These works together reflect the core themes of AnabCrafts: a deep appreciation for nature, the human experience, and the richness of identity.