An artist from Pakistan, Rija Qutaibah began her journey into artistry when she was 14. Her father didn’t approve of art as a career option, so she got a marketing degree. However, Rija stuck with her dreams and went back to school for an art degree. Today, Rija works as a freelancer and a design for an ad agency. She’s also helping make the world a better place, making designs (like Not For Sale, shown above) for Wearable Therapy that tackle difficult topics. Find out more about Rija in our Q&A:
What inspires your art?
Art to me is all about expression. It has a very personal meaning for me, I always try putting whatever I feel into my art work.
Do you have any trademarks/recurring themes in your art?
Well, I have been told I make subtle, melancholic, gothic style art. I really like making faces and I have started adding distinct line art in my illustrations.
What mediums do you usually work in?
Pen and pencils are my favorite medium.
Where can our customers find you or your work online?
On Behance and Instagram
What was your inspiration/can you describe the design that you did for WT?
In the ‘Not for Sale’ design, I wanted to portray how women should have the freedom to be as alluring and attractive as they want without being objectified.
Other than your own, what is your favorite WT product?
Well, I love the concept and really like the bags.
PROUD- My Mom
ANGRY – Bad internet connection
EXCITED- Gothic art, anime, ice cream
SCARED- Japanese horror
LUCKY- My life
CONFLICTED- Shopping
EMPOWERED- Ignoring social judgments
HOPEFUL- Spirituality and art
SAD- Silent nights
STRONG- My brother, sister and heavy metal music always
Freeway or Scenic Route? Freeway
Night out with friends or a quiet night in? Quiet night in
Adventure trip or relaxing vacation? Relaxing vacation
Great job with long hours or Okay job with lots of time off? Great job with long hours
The 1950s, 60s, 70s or 80s? 80s
Are your real life (people you know) role models?
My thesis teacher.
Are your famous/well-known role models?
Milton Glaser.
Would you like to work with/for in the future?
Pixar, Blizzard.
Inspired you most as a child?
My brother.
Pushes you the hardest?
My brother.
WT is all about Defining Your Normal. So, let’s find out more about what makes you You!
What is your definition of ‘normal’?
Boring and overrated.
We are all about celebrating people’s awesomeness, so what makes you awesome?
My goth boots, piercing, tattoos, and don’t give a shit attitude.
What is a challenge that you face often in your life?
Telling the world it is OK not to do what everyone else does.
What is the best compliment that you have ever received?
I am really cool 🙂
What was the best criticism you ever received?
I need to be patient in life.
What makes your life easier?
Being around loved ones.
What makes your life more difficult?
Meeting people that are superficial.
What is your definition of success?
There are no right answers. The more mistakes you make the more successful you will be.
We are all changing and evolving all the time. How are you in the process of changing?
Well I used to hate change, but now I know it is only part of life. It makes me happy.
If you could interview anyone, whom would you choose?
Anthony Hopkins
Check out her design on some of our Wearable Therapy products:
Thank you for the effort, keep up the good work. Great work.