We had the good fortune of connecting with Weriem and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Weriem, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I come from an uncommon background, having lived in both France and Tunisia for significant periods of time: eighteen and nine years, respectively. Thirteen years ago, I made the transition to the USA, with Chicago becoming my home. Each of these countries has significantly shaped who I am today. I cherish the diverse perspectives and experiences I gained from them, including insights into artistic identity, language plurality, and varied notions of a fulfilling life. My upbringing was an interesting blend of scientific influence from my parents and my own artistic aspirations. Despite my early desire to pursue a career in the visual arts, my parents encouraged me to pursue a path to a “real job”. So, I embarked on a journey through academia, obtaining a PhD in genetics. However, my passion for the arts never waned. Throughout my scientific studies, I continued to cultivate my artistic skills, finding solace in drawing, dancing, and exploring various crafts like sewing.

After my doctoral studies, I finally felt the courage to pursue my true calling in the arts. For the next decade, I immersed myself in the world of costume design. Reflecting on my journey, I realized that whether I was exploring the intricacies of biology, designing detailed costumes, or painting, there has always been a common thread: a fascination with the beauty and complexity found in the minutiae of life.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My art is all about capturing the theatricality of life! Using colored pencils, I create layers of pigments to infuse depth, saturation, and energy into my drawings. When I opt for black ink, the striking contrast yields bold, graphic compositions. Each piece invites the viewer to immerse themselves in their own imaginary theater, with just a touch of drama! This year, I’ve been excited to incorporate more paint into my work, exploring new avenues for my upcoming collection of original pieces. One crucial lesson I’ve learned recently is the importance of independence in my creative process. While I’ve always considered myself a social creature, I’ve discovered that I thrive creatively when I can work autonomously or at least without heavy reliance on others. I’m proud to have the confidence to decline projects that aren’t the right fit for me, redirecting my energy towards sharing my artwork with enthusiasts locally in Chicago and globally through my website and social media channels. The journey has been filled with bumps, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I think that my stubbornness blended with a touch of flexibility has been instrumental in my progress. It’s this combination that allows me to stay focused on my goals while also adapting to the inevitable twists and turns along the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Chicago, the options are endless! Here are some of my favorites:

1. Art Institute: Don’t miss the Thorne Miniature Rooms and the impressive collection of impressionist paintings.
2. Palmer House hotel lobby: Enjoy coffee in historic surroundings frequented by Oscar Wilde and Sarah Bernhardt.
3. Cindy’s: Sip cocktails with a stunning view of Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, and the Cloud Gate. If it’s cold outside: try the Chicago Athletic Association instead.
4. Chicago Architecture Foundation walking tour: Explore the city’s skyline and end with a sunset view from the Hancock Tower lounge. Boat tour on the river and lake: see the skyline from a unique perspective!
6. Wicker Park: Discover unique finds at Myopic Books, dine at Taxim, and enjoy a drink at the Robey Hotel terrace.
7. On the North side of Chicago: indulge in Indian cuisine on Devon Avenue, browse the antique and thrift stores in Andersonville. Visit open artist studios in Ravenswood and swing by the Green Mill, Al Capone’s former headquarters.
8. In the suburbs: explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s studio and house in Oak Park, and visit Hemingway’s childhood home.
BONUS: in the Summer, dive into the Lake Michigan from the different beaches, go to concerts in Grant Park, or the “Movie in the Park” events. If it’s winter, you can ice skate in Maggie Daley Park.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
While there are countless individuals who have contributed to my journey, I want to highlight the closest person to me, another artist, Brandon Acker, who also happens to be… my husband! We met because we both worked in the same niche (baroque operas, he as a musician and I as a costume designer). During the pandemic, we co-founded an online music school together (Arpeggiato.com), and almost every day, we work in the same apartment. He’s not only my partner in life but also in art; he’s always the first one to see my new artwork and I’d like to thank him for his priceless feedback and unwavering support. We’re each other’s cheerleaders and serve as art & business consultants for one another, as we often joke about it!

Website: https://weriem.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weriem

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weriem-visual-artist-8131b24a/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuiKVlNy_OiYcFGKjTmPjrA

Image Credits
Portrait by Jenny’s Lens. Other photos by WERIEM.

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