For the love of it (vol.14)

For the Love of It” is a series that explores Tarik’s deep passion for creation and self-expression through painting. He seeks out unusual, unpopulated locations to refine his skills and find solace from the stresses of life and the weight of past experiences. This process not only serves as a therapeutic escape but also rekindles his connection to the stories he aims to tell through his art. When his creative space feels overwhelming, these quiet spots become his sanctuary, allowing him to rediscover the joy of painting and the narratives woven into each piece.

Title: “Stored Emotions”

Dimensions: 400cm (w) x 300 cm (h)

Medium: oil paint on concrete

Description:

This spot was truly special—nestled in the hinterland near a flowing stream, with birds singing and a fresh breeze stirring under the sun. I used paints that were once all I could afford when I first started painting, and I’ve been meaning to finish them for a while. It felt like a huge release when I finally did. The process became a metaphor for letting go of the emotions I’d been holding onto.

I chose to work with my hands, allowing the patterns to emerge organically. In doing so, I left behind traces of old, unresolved feelings, mixed with the essence of who I am now. It was a way to free myself from the clutter of my mind, to surrender to the moment and let the work unfold. As my hands and body became covered in paint, I realized it was symbolic—an act of bringing my worries to the surface and moving on from them. This piece is a reflection of that catharsis.