For the love of it (vol.15)

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: “BAD DINO”

Dimensions: 650cm (w) x 400cm (h)

Medium: Oil sticks, house paint, spray paint, acrylic markers on concrete.

Description:

This piece was born from a need to use up leftover paints and challenge myself by working with limited resources. Despite the intention, it left me frustrated, feeling like it was a waste of paint. No one critiques my work as harshly as I do, and I’m deeply insecure about what this piece became. Yet, even in the midst of doubt, painting gave me immense satisfaction—it’s one of the few times I feel truly alive, like I can take a deep breath and fill my lungs with clarity.

I created this piece spontaneously on my way home, in a spot dominated by graffiti-style works. As I balanced on stacked paint containers to reach higher, the fresh air and light rain on my face offered a fleeting moment of peace. Perhaps this piece wasn’t about the painting itself, but about finding that moment of stillness and connection.

This piece, like many others, became more about the journey than the destination. Through moments of frustration, fleeting beauty, and deep self-reflection, it captures the raw essence of the creative process—the triumphs, doubts, and quiet joys that make it meaningful. It stands as a testament to my ongoing exploration of art and self, reminding me that even in imperfection, there is something profoundly worth cherishing.

Having a style as personal and unique as mine can feel isolating, especially in spaces like this. My paintings are deeply personal, and sometimes I struggle to love what I create. But my passion for painting, and the grounding it provides, keeps me going. I’ve found that these experiments often lead to breakthroughs when I transition back to canvas work. With the right support and resources, I hope to uncover something profound and share it with the world.