Award-winning poet and Tempo contributor, Dorian “Paul D” Rogers chats over coffee with singer and art director, Hiba Khalid about music and the arts in the UAE.
Paul D: How did you get to Abu Dhabi?
Hiba: My family moved here back in 1980, and I was born and raised in here. I went to the American University of Sharjah (AUS) where I studied Multimedia Design and Design Management.
Paul D: That sounds like a cool university focus. You’re a vocalist and senior art director. What was your first passion?
Hiba: I have to say it was music first. I have been into music since I was six years old; I played different instruments in school. I used to play keyboard, drums, xylophone and accordion and even used to stay after school hours to learn Oud. I eventually learned the guitar, started singing along while playing, and finally discovered that I could actually sing!
Paul D: What are some of your musical inspirations?
Hiba: I am a big old school soul and R&B fan. Thanks to my older brothers, I grew up listening to great artists like Maxwell, D’Angelo, Whitney Houston, Prince, Tevin Campbell, and Aaliyah. When I was a teenager all my friends were into Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls and I was listening to a totally different genre!
Paul D: So what is the job description of an artistic director?
Hiba: My job is to come-up with creative concepts and ideas for advertising campaigns to promote products and services through different media like TV, print ads, digital, etc. I work closely with a copywriter who is responsible for the textual content while I handle the visual aspect. Art directors generally tend to have an understanding of photography, film and graphic design.
Paul D: Would you sing full-time if there was the opportunity?
Hiba: I think I might consider it. Who wouldn’t want to pursue their passion if they have the opportunity!
Paul D: What do you think of the culture and arts scene in the UAE?
Hiba: I must say I am quite impressed by how the culture and art scene has developed lately especially having lived here all my life, I get to witness this growth as it happens and being part of it all is great. I would like to especially give a shout out to Rooftop Rhythms.
Paul D: How would you compare the artistic culture in Dubai to that of Abu Dhabi?
Hiba: I think they’re quite similar yet different. Both cities are diverse and recently have been hugely supportive of the arts and culture scene. Dubai probably has shed the light on culture and arts a little bit earlier by creating many art galleries, events, seminars and workshops. It is more international and broad. However, I always feel that Abu Dhabi has a unique and genuine factor. With Saadiyat Island and the opening of the museums and galleries in the near future, things will definitely be different, and people will better appreciate art and culture.
Paul D: If you could have designed the Expo 2020 logo what colours would you have used?
Hiba: I would have used a combination of colours like turquoise, pink and yellow because I believe that would reflect the diversity of Dubai in a modern approach. Plus, I generally like the use of different colours as a personal preference.
Paul D: There are a lot of great Sudanese poets singers and musicians in the UAE. To what would you attribute this native talent?
Hiba: I am really glad you acknowledge that. I believe Sudanese people love and appreciate music and poetry. Sudan has a rich history and culture of poetry, and people used to write and sing about almost everything, from national songs about the land and wars, to writing about beautiful women and love. I believe this has influenced all generations until now.
I also think that everywhere you go you find that in writing poetry and songs, people find a way to mirror their opinions and express their feelings towards different issues in life – be they personal or social. We are also quite an emotional, expressive nation – don’t get too emotional when I ask you to pay for this bill!
