Meet Artist Dina
Dina Yasser is a Detroit-based oil surrealist painter known for her bold explorations of human anatomy and geometric forms. Born in Iraq and migrating to the U.S. in 2006, Dina’s artistic journey began at a young age, driven by a love for creativity that started when she was just five years old. Growing up in an environment where artistic expression was often restricted, she rebelled by sketching human anatomy—particularly female forms—despite the taboo nature of the subject. Her early work was hidden from view, but over time, Dina’s confidence grew, and she began to embrace her unique voice.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Wayne State University in 2019, Dina continued pushing the boundaries of her craft. Inspired by anatomical illustrations in books and a desire to be unique, she developed a distinct style that combines the precision of the human form with the rigidity of geometric shapes. Her work often features cold, dark tones, applied with smooth, precise brushstrokes that convey both fragility and strength.
In 2023, Dina participated in her first group exhibition organized by the Mandaean Association in Michigan, where her work received high praise. Her artistic path, marked by continuous exploration and a fearless approach to challenging subjects, remains a testament to her creative intuition and desire to push beyond traditional boundaries.
A statement from Dina…
My inspiration is derived from the environment around me. Growing up with parents who appreciated the beauty of art was the most significant motivation for me. Since my first early childhood sketches, my parents realized that I was gifted in the arts.
Their encouragement gave me the incentive to explore my talent and convey my emotions. Painting what I feel is my personal philosophy. I found that surrealism gives me the opportunity to fly out of realism and express my emotions boundlessly.
My creative process starts with an idea or sensation, then brainstorming, and leads to a sketch. After that, I transfer the final sketch onto canvas, which I then layer with oil paint, following the movement of the markings. Inspiration can strike at any moment, so I always have art supplies on hand and favor spaces with natural light as I turn interesting thoughts into magnificent art.
Artist Interview – Dina
Explore Dina’s technique, philosophy on artistic expression, and all that inspires her through our exclusive interview.
“What was your most challenging piece and why?”
“The Dreamy Female”. Is the most challenging piece. Compared to my previous artworks, this one is more
realistic and features and significant portion of cloth that I experimented with using a variety of color
tones.
“What are you currently working on?”
I’m returning to my original fantasy/surrealistic painting style. It was my very first style when i started
using oil paints. Both I and viewer will enjoy the new artwork more because it involves more use of
imagination and creativity.
“What message do you convey in your work?”
My goal with every piece of art I create is to let my feelings to be the biggest part of any painting at that
moment. I don’t let rules restrict me; I paint what I feel and what I want. Canvas is my personal space and I
believe that everyone should be free to express themselves as a work of art. everyone is beautiful and
unique in their own way.
“Who is your favorite iconic artist?”
Michelangelo is my favorite iconic artist of all time. He was genius since he was very young. He left school to pursue his passion to learn art. His art is the most significant in the world. Despite the fact that most his artwork is commissions for religious purposes and institutions but at the end we all can see Michelangelo’s strength, passion and talent are all evident in every little detail he has created.
“Who is your biggest fan and supporter?”
My family and the few people who truly love me are my biggest supporters. They encourage me to keep
improving by giving me honest constructive criticism, and they also admire every piece of art I have made.
“Is there a word, thought, or feeling that helps you begin your process?”
Always an image comes into my head encouraging me to start a new painting. A picture or line from a song can be a source of inspiration for a new artwork.
“In your studio, do you listen to music or a podcast while you create? Or do you prefer
silence?”
Quietness or sometimes classical music is my preference when I’m working in my studio. Listening to my thoughts and escaping from my surroundings with my paintings and brushes is what I prefer.
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