Meet Aida Sajedi | Illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aida Sajedi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aida, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
As a teenager who was overweight, I always felt self-conscious about my body when around my peers. I couldn’t easily identify with the image of “beautiful girls,” and I often received advice from my friends that I should go on a diet to become thinner. At that age, I had a strong dislike for my body, which led me to embark on a very intense diet in order to conform to society’s beauty standards. Now, looking back with the benefit of hindsight, I can’t help but wonder why I subjected myself to such a grueling process to conform to these standards. This process could potentially have caused irreparable harm to my body. I find myself pondering the root of my body image issues during that time. It was this very experience that inspired me to create the “Women” collection.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about.

Certainly, my art is a passionate exploration of the role of women, with a focus on breaking free from conventional beauty standards. I find immense excitement in challenging the prevailing stereotypes and expectations associated with women’s appearance.
In today’s world, the term “woman” is often synonymous with a slender, statuesque figure. Regrettably, women with diverse body shapes, particularly those with excess fat, are frequently marginalized and overlooked in the realm of conventional beauty. Plus-size individuals are rarely featured as models or revered as beauty icons.
The essence of my work is deeply rooted in the understanding that adolescence is a transformative period marked by significant changes in our bodies, minds, and social lives. For many young girls, the onset of puberty can lead to dissatisfaction with their own bodies, especially when they don’t align with the slim ideal they encounter in the media or from peers and family. This disconnect can result in depressive symptoms and the development of disordered eating behaviors, with teenage girls often bearing the brunt of these societal pressures.
My women’s collection aspires to challenge and redefine the very concept of beauty for women. It conveys the powerful message that “woman” is beautiful in every shape and form, and that a woman’s true beauty is found within her soul, transcending the limitations of external appearances and societal ideals. By celebrating the uniqueness and diversity of women, I hope to inspire a shift in the way we perceive and appreciate the beauty of the female form.

How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?

To reach my current professional position, I’ve always taken my aspirations seriously. When confronted with the need to acquire new skills, I embraced the challenge head-on. Learning new software or techniques to enhance my craft was a non-negotiable commitment.
In the face of rejection, I adopted a resilient attitude. Instead of being disheartened, I used rejection as an opportunity for growth. I meticulously assessed the flaws in my work and persisted in showcasing it until I achieved success.
Art is a highly competitive field, teeming with talented individuals. To stand out, I firmly believe in the importance of originality. I’ve always strived to present a unique artistic style, steering clear of imitation and forging my own creative path. Even when addressing common themes, injecting a fresh perspective sets you apart from the crowd.
Ultimately, I’ve discovered that authenticity and genuine passion are the driving forces behind achieving success in the world of art. When your creations stem from the depths of your heart, they have a natural allure that attracts recognition and appreciation.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

I want the world to know that my art is a vibrant reflection of my unwavering commitment to challenging traditional beauty standards. Through my work, I aim to celebrate and empower women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. I want people to understand that beauty is not confined to a specific mold but is a diverse tapestry of individuality.
My brand and story are deeply rooted in the belief that every woman deserves to feel beautiful and confident, irrespective of societal expectations. I’m passionate about advocating for body positivity and self-acceptance, especially among young girls facing the pressures of conforming to an idealized image.
By sharing my art and my message, I hope to inspire a shift in perception, encouraging a world where beauty is seen in every facet of a woman’s existence, beyond mere physical appearance. I want my brand to be a symbol of inclusivity and a source of strength for women seeking to embrace their true selves.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting the area for a week, I would curate an unforgettable itinerary to show them the best time ever. Here’s a glimpse of what I’d plan:

Day 1 – Exploring the Art Scene

Morning: We’d start our week by visiting the local art galleries and studios to soak in the vibrant creativity of the area.
Lunch: A quaint, artistic cafe known for its delicious, locally-sourced dishes.
Afternoon: An art workshop or a visit to a cultural center to experience the local art and craft traditions.
Evening: A cozy wine bar with live music, where we can unwind and discuss the day’s artistic discoveries.

Day 2 – Nature and Adventure

Morning: A hike in the nearby nature reserve, taking in breathtaking views and enjoying the serenity of the outdoors.
Lunch: A picnic in the park, featuring locally-sourced gourmet treats.
Afternoon: Water sports or a thrilling adventure activity.
Evening: A scenic dinner at a restaurant with a panoramic view of the landscape.

Day 3 – Culinary Delights

Morning: A visit to the local farmers’ market to pick up fresh ingredients.
Lunch: A cooking class to learn to prepare a regional specialty.
Afternoon: A food tour, exploring the area’s culinary treasures.
Evening: A reservation at a renowned fine dining restaurant for a gastronomic experience.

Day 4 – History and Culture

Morning: A guided tour of historical landmarks and museums.
Lunch: An authentic local restaurant, known for its traditional cuisine.
Afternoon: A visit to a cultural heritage site or a local performance.
Evening: A cozy jazz club for live music and cocktails.

Day 5 – Relaxation

Morning: A visit to a tranquil spa or wellness retreat.
Lunch: A healthy and rejuvenating meal at a wellness cafe.
Afternoon: Yoga or meditation in a serene setting.
Evening: Stargazing in a tranquil natural environment.

Day 6 – Shopping and Entertainment

Morning: Exploring the local markets and boutique shops.
Lunch: Street food or a casual cafe with a vibrant atmosphere.
Afternoon: A visit to an amusement park or an entertainment show.
Evening: A lively pub or a comedy club for some fun and laughter.

Day 7 – Farewell Brunch and Scenic Views

Morning: A leisurely farewell brunch at a restaurant with a view.
Afternoon: A scenic drive or cable car ride to a lookout point with panoramic vistas.
Evening: A relaxed dinner with a view to reflect on the memorable week.
This itinerary blends a mix of culture, nature, culinary experiences, relaxation, and entertainment to offer a comprehensive taste of the area’s most fun, interesting, and exciting aspects. It’s designed to provide a memorable and diverse experience for my best friend during their visit.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my dad. He has been an incredible source of support, mentorship, and encouragement throughout my life. His unwavering belief in my abilities and his constant guidance have played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. He taught me the value of hard work, integrity, and resilience, and I owe a significant portion of my success to his wisdom and guidance. My dad’s love and support have been the foundation upon which I’ve built my life, and I’m incredibly grateful for his presence in my journey.

Website: https://aidasajedi.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aida.sajedi

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/aidasajedi

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@AidaSajedi

Other: https://www.behance.net/aidasajedi