By Emadeldin Rijal

Popular shadowbox artist, Mr. Ahmed Al Mustafa Jamaleldin, has made his mark with intricately crafted pieces that depict the cultural diversity of Darfuri communities. Detailed miniatures imbued with traditional symbolism come together in his art to convey what, he says, is an expression of his hope for  peaceful coexistence across this conflict-ridden land. 

Born in 1975, Mr. Jamaleldin lives in El Fasher, North Darfur, and has received no formal education in the arts.  His creative expression, according to him, stems from innate talent as well as a desire to make Darfuri culture easily accessible to others. 

In an interview with Voices of Darfur, Mr. Jamaleldin talks about his artistic process, what inspires him and the challenges he faces in the path to ensuring his work is an accurate record of the historical moments he seeks to illustrate.  

VOD: Tell us a bit about how you started your journey in art. 

Jamaleldin:  From a very early age, I was drawn toward sketching and painting. I started participating in art competitions held at school and in other similar spaces, where I discovered that I had a knack for drawing; I always excelled in most of these platforms. In some time, I began copying great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci while also developing my skills through books designed to teach the basics of painting. Additionally, I regularly visited art exhibitions. My craft is essentially self-taught but all these early experiences helped shape my own creative vision and become ambitious enough to develop a signature mode of artistic expression.

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