About

Growing up with limited exposure to Black art and culture, my experience as an art student at Howard University was exhilarating. I saw art made for and by Black people. Powerful and exquisite, it reflected and expanded my notion of beauty, creativity, and representation. The faculty included renowned artists such as Lois Mailou Jones Pierre-Noel, Ed Love, and Starmanda Bullock. However, the work of Elizabeth Catlett inspired me the most. I attended an exhibit of her sculpture and prints and was mesmerized. Her work was commanding and spoke to the social issues of the time. And her craftsmanship was impeccable. This experience was the foundation of who I would become as an artist. Not only is it my mission to celebrate and elevate my heritage, but I also want people to experience the joy I felt at Howard by creating art that feels good to the soul.

I use various materials and art forms in the creation of my work. Because I am concerned about the environment, I utilize eco-friendly materials and processes.

As an award-winning artist, I have received numerous awards for my work. I received the 2019 City of Charlotte Placemaking Program Award - Beatties Ford Road Signal Cabinet Wrap Project. I was also selected in 2019 to create sound wall art for the Genesis Park Neighborhood Association Public Art Project. In 2015, my art was featured on a billboard in the Charlotte region through the ArtPop Street Gallery program. And in 2013 and 2012, my gourd art jewelry received first-place ribbons at the North Carolina Gourd Society Gourd Art Competition (see portfolio). 

 - Sala Faruq, Owner & Artist

Sala is a resident of Charlotte, North Carolina. She is a visual artist, business owner, author, and publisher with a bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Howard University and a master's in Arts Management from The American University. She has traveled widely throughout the United States, Europe, and West Africa. ​