Meet Moosa Khan | Visual Artist and Illustrator

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

Hi Moosa, what inspires you?
I have always been a big fan of squash and stretch transition frames in animation. I feel as if the chaos of these frames gradually gives way to order, where shapes and shadows begin to tell their own stories. Good storytelling in my opinion isn’t about individuality, it’s about finding a way to calm the anxieties we all carry. I am inspired by art tinged with a certain sense of melancholy, like a coffee stain on a drawing one might have been working.

Embracing the idea of making interesting chaotic marks such as the in between experimental frames of an animation can be a powerful approach. In a digital world that often prizes perfection and clean design, I encourage myself and my students to make ‘interesting’ marks over the ‘correct’ ones. It opens up space for creativity, allowing imperfections and unexpected elements to become part of the narrative.

How does one take these mistakes and transcend it into one inky stroke of happiness and revolt. Perhaps even love. Like a tangerine bit and the leaks of fluids in your mouth. It leaves a certain taste in your mouth each time. And if one can transcend beyond one’s tastes, we could surely experience some new flavors.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My process involves a lot of sketching, prototyping and conceptualizing. I love the aspect of work vs play in my work. My aim is usually to develop my own unique visual language with a painterly touch of absurdism.

One of the art movements I am influenced by is German Expressionist and the use of jagged looking simplified shape language. One key aspect from this period was the chisel, which lead me to creation of my own unique brushes that mimic the materiality of painterly chiseled strokes. This style helped achieve an interesting line quality that became the hallmark of my style.

During my painting elective at the Maryland Institute College of Art my professor remarked ; ‘ There are two types of painters – Dabbers and Slashers. My professor encouraged me to stay true to my style, which leans towards slashing. This approach informs my painting and design language, with a focus on emotional mark-making.

I often employ a stream of consciousness method in my drawings, allowing different influences to flow organically into my work. My work blends influences, techniques and personal expression all aimed at creating visual experiences that are emotionally resonant to me and hopefully the audience in the process.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For an unforgettable day in Washington DC, I’d start by taking my friend out for drinks in the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood, where the lively bars and eclectic atmosphere promise a great time. We’d kick off the morning with a delicious breakfast at Le Diplomate, savoring some French classics. After fueling up, we’d immerse ourselves in the world of art at the National Portrait Gallery, exploring its impressive collections. To cap off the day, we’d hit up a nightclub for an epic night of dancing and revelry, making sure we embrace the city’s nightlife with all the energy and excitement it has to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Noorpur Chowksi Graphic Designer and Illustrator

Website: https://moosakhan.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moosasamosa/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moosasamosa/

Other: https://www.pbs.org/video/episode-9011-the-art-of-animation-yjle9g/