Image Alt
 • Brand New  • Architectural Precision Meets Artistic Expression || Meet Ola Habaybeh
Ola Habaybeh

Architectural Precision Meets Artistic Expression || Meet Ola Habaybeh

Ola Habaybeh is an architect and artist whose work seamlessly blends the structured precision of architecture with the fluid, emotive essence of art. Her unique handmade art pieces stand out for their careful balance between form and function, while also exploring deeper narratives and personal expressions. With O Art by Ola Habaybeh, she has established a distinctive artistic voice that brings together technical skill, creativity, and emotional depth.  Ola shares insights into her creative process with CIIN we will delve into the evolution of her brand, and the delicate balance she maintains between her dual passions of architecture and art.

As both an architect and an artist, how do these two disciplines influence each other in your creations, especially when designing your unique handmade art pieces?

These disciplines intertwine in ways that enhance each other. Architecture grounds my art in principles of form, structure, and spatial relationships, giving my creations a strong sense of proportion and balance. When designing handmade art pieces, I think in terms of spatial flow and how the piece interacts with its environment, much like I would with a building or space.

On the flip side, my artistic practice brings a layer of emotion, creativity, and intuition to architecture. Art allows me to break away from rigid rules, embrace fluidity, and explore unconventional shapes, materials, and textures. This freedom makes my architectural designs more dynamic and personal, while the structural discipline from architecture gives my art a solid framework to express ideas. Both fields constantly feed into each other, making my creations a fusion of technical precision and creative exploration.

Did you always know you wanted to be an artist?

Ola Habaybeh

I didn’t always know I wanted to be an artist, but creativity has always been a part of my life. As a child, I was constantly drawing, building things, and exploring different ways to express ideas visually. Initially, I was more drawn to architecture because it felt like the most direct way to channel my creativity into something practical and impactful.

It wasn’t until later, when I started experimenting with different materials and forms beyond architecture, that I realized art offered a kind of freedom I had never experienced. Art allows for more spontaneity and personal expression, where I can follow my instincts without being bound by rules or functionality. So, while I didn’t set out knowing I would become an artist, it was a natural evolution of my creative journey.

What inspired you to venture into creating handmade art, and how did it evolve into O Art by Ola Habaybeh?

My journey into handmade art was sparked by a desire to explore creativity beyond the boundaries of architecture. As an architect, I’ve always worked with form, space, and materials, but I wanted to experiment more freely, without the constraints of function and scale. I began crafting smaller, handmade pieces as a way to dive into pure artistic expression, blending my love for design with a more hands-on, intuitive approach.

Over time, these experiments grew into something more substantial, and that’s how O Art by Ola Habaybeh came to life. It became a reflection of my evolving artistic identity, where each piece is a blend of architectural precision and personal creativity. What started as personal exploration has turned into a brand that allows me to share my passion for handmade art with others.

What sets your art apart from others?

My art stands out because of how I merge architectural principles with deep personal expression. My background in architecture gives me a strong foundation in structure, balance, and form, but my art goes beyond that by exploring emotions, stories, and connections through textures, shapes, and materials. Each piece is crafted to evoke feeling or provoke thought, combining precision with a sense of fluidity and organic movement.

I also place a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail in my handmade pieces. Each artwork is created with a hands-on approach, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike, which brings a unique, personal touch to each one. My work often engages the viewer in an experiential way, inviting them not just to look, but to feel the textures, the depth, and the interplay between light and shadow. This blend of thoughtful design, emotional depth, and tactile interaction gives my art its distinctive character.

Can you describe your typical creative process? How do you transition from an initial idea to a finished piece?

Ola Habaybeh

My creative process usually begins with inspiration, which can come from nature, emotions, or even architecture. I start by sketching rough ideas, playing with shapes, textures, and how they might interact in space. This stage is very intuitive, allowing me to explore possibilities without overthinking the final outcome.

Once I have a basic concept, I refine it by considering the materials I want to use and the technical aspects of construction or execution. This is where my architectural background comes into play, as I think about balance, proportion, and how the piece will interact with its surroundings. I experiment with materials—whether it’s wood, metal, or fabric—to understand how they can bring the design to life.

The final touches are about making sure the piece feels complete—whether it’s adding texture, refining edges, or finding the right balance of light and shadow. I always step back to see how the piece engages with space and the viewer, ensuring that it communicates the vision I had when I first started.

Handmade art carries a certain intimacy and personal touch. What is your approach to ensuring each piece reflects both your vision and the individuality of the buyer?

I prioritize a collaborative approach while maintaining my artistic integrity. Each artwork begins with my unique perspective, but I actively communicate with the buyer to understand their preferences and the context in which they envision the piece.

During our initial conversation, I explore what resonates with them—colors, themes, or specific elements they connect with. This dialogue informs the creative process, allowing me to weave their personal touches into the work, ensuring that the final piece feels like a true reflection of their identity and taste.

As I create, I strive to infuse the piece with layers of meaning that resonate beyond its visual appeal. This might involve using textures that evoke particular emotions or forms that relate to their personal experiences. Ultimately, the piece reflects both my vision and the buyer’s individuality, fostering a deeper emotional connection to the art.

What role does experimentation play in your art? Are you willing to try new techniques or materials?

Ola Habaybeh

Experimentation plays a crucial role in my art, serving as a catalyst for innovation and growth. It allows me to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of my creativity. By trying different techniques and materials, I can uncover unique effects and textures that enhance my work and add depth to my artistic expression.

I embrace the challenge of working with unfamiliar mediums or methods, as this often leads to unexpected discoveries. Whether it’s experimenting with different paint applications or incorporating unconventional materials, each new technique brings its own set of possibilities and influences the direction of my art. This openness to take risks helps me develop a more versatile skill set and portfolio.

Experimentation also brings a sense of playfulness into my creative process. Some of my best pieces arise from moments of spontaneity, where I let go of expectations and allow the materials to guide me. This ensures my work remains dynamic and continually evolves, reflecting my growth as an artist.

How important is maintaining a personal connection with your clients when it comes to commissioning and creating art?

It’s crucial in both the commissioning process and the creation of art. This relationship allows me to deeply understand their vision, values, and the emotions they wish to convey through the artwork. When clients feel comfortable sharing their stories, inspirations, and preferences, it informs my creative process and helps me tailor the piece to their unique identity.

A strong personal connection fosters trust and collaboration, which are vital for successful commissions. Clients are more likely to express their thoughts and feedback openly, leading to a more satisfying result that aligns with their expectations. I see each commission as a partnership, and this connection helps create something that genuinely reflects their personality and aspirations.

Moreover, building rapport with clients creates a sense of investment in the artwork, making the final piece not just an object but a meaningful part of their life. This connection can lead to long-term relationships, where clients return for future commissions or refer me to others, enhancing both my practice and their appreciation for the art.

Looking to the future, how do you see your art evolving, and are there any upcoming projects or themes you’re excited to explore?

Looking ahead, I see my art evolving through deeper explorations of themes related to identity, memory, and the environment. I want to push the boundaries of how materials are used, perhaps incorporating more unconventional elements that challenge traditional notions of form and function. I’m particularly excited about integrating technology into my work, whether through digital components or interactive installations, to create a dialogue between the viewer and the artwork.

I’m also planning a series that explores the concept of interconnectedness—how individual stories and experiences shape our collective identity. This series will involve both sculptural and two-dimensional works, inviting the audience to engage with their own narratives while reflecting on the broader human experience.

I’m excited about the endless possibilities for growth and exploration in my art. I aim to create pieces that not only showcase my artistic vision but also resonate with viewers on a personal level, encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences and the world around them.