Tell us a little about yourself….
I’m Menah, I live & work in Amsterdam. Graduating from art school in 2011, I started illustrating. My work consists of illustrating, a lot of live drawing (at club nights, concerts and parties, but also for instance visual minutes at conferences) and, mostly journal-related, personal projects. I’ve recently moved into a new place that has great light in the morning, which has now made me a morning person.
Where do you get your inspiration for personal projects?
I’m fascinated by all people. I’m very moved by the little things they do. The best moments in my day are the moments when I’m talking to a friend and their face changes completely when they talk about some pastry they like. Or when they watch tv while simultaneously practising left-handed writing. Or talk to me in English, then talk to the cat in French. I used to draw fantasy worlds, but I’ve started to like ‘reality’ so much I think I can stick with it without ever getting bored. I’m trying to share as much intimacy with the world as I can. That’s a big part of life for me, so it’s also a big part of my work.
What’s your relationship with Volkshotel?
I first came to Volkshotel when it practically had no walls. It did however have sufficient desk space, good coffee, and my lovely lovely studio mate Aynouk. In time, I’ve seen the building grow into this super happening, quirky, energetic space, with lots of different people doing lots of different stuff every day. I really enjoy this place. It’s the hotel that never sleeps.
And finally, tell us about the chalkboard…
I started with all these ideas of fun quirky drawings, but then when I stood in front of the chalkboard I discovered that I really wanted to add a personal touch to the Volkshotel. So I drew this girl in a hotel room, I imagine she’s a bit tired and hadn’t noticed the person she shares the room with looking at her. I like how big the wall space is, I think it works nicely with the intimacy of the scene.
Check out Menah’s work, we love it!
