The Pacesetters conversations is a project of Diversity Arts Australia documenting and recording trailblazing artists’ work from culturally diverse backgrounds.

When Abdul Abdullah approached Khaled Sabsabi for an interview, Abdul mentioned that there was already a lot of writing by smarter people than himself about Khaled's practice. Abdul wanted to unpack the ideas that Khaled explores in his work-- especially how he got to where he is, and to show readers his natural warmth. Abdul believes a lot of young people would relate to Khaled's experience as an outsider, and how this formed his unique approach to a visual arts practice. It is an example of a young man reacting to a dysfunctional system and maturing into one of Australia's leading artists. Khaled might not say it this way, but Abdul sees a clever street-wiseness becoming wisdom that we can all learn from. 

For more about Khaled:

Khaled Sabsabi

Khaled Sabsabi in conversation with curator Matt Cox | Art Gallery of NSW

Khaled Sabsabi: A hope | Campbelltown Arts Centre

Khaled Sabsabi’s Fending for Peace | Mutual Art

Credits:

Guest: Khaled Sabsabi

Interviewer: Abdul Abdullah

Music: Dog and Kahnon, Khaled Sabsabi

Podcast producer: Nadyat El Gawley
Executive producer and host: Lena Nahlous, DARTS CEO
Pacesetters project producer: Kevin Bathman

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