Zulfa Ishak
Zulfa Ishak, author and illustrator based in Maryland, explores themes of spirituality, self- discovery, and alchemy of the soul. Her art honors the finding of forgotten parts of ourselves and the magic born from the journey within.
You can find Zulfa’s art on Instagram at @madebyzulfaa. For a more personal experience, check out her card deck, "All of You is Magic," a gentle companion on the path of self-discovery.
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WRAPPR: Who are you and how did you start making art?
My name is Zulfa Ishak, and I am an illustrator, author, and graphic designer.
I've loved the vibrant world of art since I can remember, doodling on the back of every schoolbook I owned. I started building my practice more seriously seven years ago. Digital Illustration invited me in, and I loved being able to get lost in it. As I continue to build this practice, I remind myself to never lose sight of the joy in creation.
W: Why do you make art?
Z: I adore the entire process of creating something. It's a direct line to my imagination. The more I make art, in any form, the more creative I am in other aspects of my life. Art is a blessing, and it is for everyone.
W: What do you do to get into your creative zone?
Z: I get my essentials: music, a comfortable seated position that doesn't hurt my back, and a cup of something steaming!
W: What is your inspiration?
Z: Currently, nature is my main source of inspiration. The more beauty you see, the more you find. Old items, such as scarves, picture frames, and bottles inspire me too. For example, I found a beautiful small key that might have belonged to my late grandmother, most likely from an old cabinet long gone. I kept it, and a few months later, I started drawing it over and over.
W: What is your most important artists’ tool, the one thing you couldn’t imagine creating without?
Z: A pen. Digital or otherwise.
W: How has your practice changed over the past 2 years?
Z: I am getting much better at slowing down and focusing more deeply on each piece I work on, and allowing myself to sink into the moment and give it my all. It's a practice that grows with me.
W: What is your dream creative project or dream team collaboration?
Z: I have so many! From illustrated storybooks to book covers to home décor. The more I make, the more I want to make.
W: What is the role of an artist in society?
To allow art to fill their cup. To give freely, and to express as honestly as they can. The art then touches whoever it connects with.
W: What is the highlight of collaborating with Wrappr for you?
It's a dream project from start to finish. I appreciated being given full creative freedom and enjoyed every bit of it!
W: What is your favourite way to use a Wrappr?
Z: Aside from a Furoshiki wrap, it makes for a lovely scarf!
