As a writer, one of the things that inspires me is beautiful artwork, and if you ever spend any time looking at the work on deviantART, I'm sure you've seen a lot of amazing work out there.  As someone who is always looking at art for book covers, I spend more time than I should checking out digital art, and when I found Naj's page, I was immediately drawn to the vintage feel of her collection.  The more of her work I looked at, the more I was curious about the artist behind the work.  As such, I interviewed Naj and asked for a few samples of her work to share with you.

1.  What inspires you?

My inspiration comes from looking at other art. All I have to do is browse around Deviantart and BAM. The wheels start turning and my mouse starts clicking and away I go on photoshop. Oh and theres those times when my dreams inspire me. I always find myself in such a weird surreal place when that happens.

2.  What's the longest amount of time a piece has taken you to create?

In one go, I once spent 5 hours straight working on a Photomanipulation (Illustration). But the outcome of the piece wasn’t very satisfying despite the fact I spent so much time on it.

3.  Judging by samples of your work, you have a great knowledge of different cultures.  Is there one that really seems to resonate in your work?  If so, why?

Since I grew up following 3 different cultures I can see why my work kind of gives out that cultural aura but no there isn’t just one that resonate in my work. I prefer to stay versatile.

4.  Who are some artists who have influenced you?

First is Erica Leighton (http://sheispretty.deviantart.com/). She is the reason why I started illustrating or photomanipulating. Her work completely inspired me and she continues to do so until this day.

Another is my mentor, Liam Farrell, who is the owner of one of Bahrain’s renowned branding firms. He helped me to grow as an artist as well as a person. He taught me many things and every day I’m thankful!

5. How long does it usually take you to work on a project?

Honestly, I don’t like taking too much time on a project. I hate to keep my clients waiting too long. So usually I take less than a week depending on my University Schedule and the type of work given to me. But I try my best to delivery everything to my clients before any deadline.

6.  What are some musical influences?

I love music from the early 1900’s, some old metal, like system of the down, Deftones, etc. and my favorite of them all, Japanese Rock. I love their style.

7.  Favorite author?

Right now, my favorite Author is Megan Duncan. Others would be Richelle Mead and Laurell K. Hamilton. But it varies each time I read a book. As a book blogger/reviewer as well I love many authors and it’s difficult just to pin point one.

8.  In addition to the digital art, what other mediums of art do you like to work in?

Besides just being an Illustrator. I’m an over all Graphics Designer. I design everything from Logos, Blog Layouts, Buttons, CD Covers and so much more. Of course, I started out traditionally. I draw and paint.

9.  What do you hope that people take away from your art?

Just the feeling of each and every one of my pieces, I want them to feel as if they’re really in each illustration they look at just like how I was when making it.

10.  How long have you been working on your art, and what do you eventually plan to do with it?

I’ve been drawing since I was very young but I only recently started working on art digitally. Approximately 7 years of Illustrating and 4 years of Designing. In the future, I’m hoping to earn a seat as a creative director in one of the design firms in my country and also, I want to create an opportunity for each and every self-published author to have their book covers designed at an affordable price.

Naj is currently at work on a cover for one of my books, and it's simply beautiful.  If you would like to see more of her work, check out the links below.  I'm sure she'd love to hear from you!

Contact : Najla(dot)Qamber(at)gmail(dot)com

Design Blog/Website: http://najlaqamberdesigns.blogspot.com/

Illustration Website: http://www.redeemer-of-light.deviantart.com/

Book Blog (Reviews) : http://unputdownablebookies.blogspot.com/