I launched Art of Raqs as a way to raise funds for charity, using my illustrations of famous raqs sharqi dancers. I have since designed way more products than my initial concept for a quick “tee shirt fundraiser” - you can buy many kinds of clothes, homewares, stationary, and more.
My store blog is the best place to learn about my latest fundraiser, and how I choose what to support.
Currently, 100% of my profits from Art of Raqs purchases go to charity.
My first design is based on a quote about why we make art when there is so much that’s going wrong in the globe. What is the value of art in a burning world?
Art connects us to each other, humanizing the “other” through shared experiences, aesthetics, and yes - entertainment.
Art can also call attention to injustice, or just open your mind a bit wider.
The dancer pictured is Tahia Carioca, the first “bellydance superstar” of the silver screen, who used her social standing for activism.
Samia Gamal was my first illustration of an Egyptian Golden Era dancer, and since “joy is a radical act” too, I decided to illustrate several of my favorite dancers from this time period.
Joy is what brings us back to the dance over and over. Dancing changes my mood almost instantly, especially when I’m with other people.
Now you can spread the joy wherever you go!