Ghazal Qadri shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Ghazal, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately I’ve been sketching with flour and colors of frosting instead of pencils and paints, baking has become my little canvas. I’ve been experimenting with almond cakes, honeycomb bread, and all sorts of sweet creations. I love the whole process- the kneading, the waiting, and that magical moment when dough rises and transforms into something beautiful, tasty, and edible. It feels like watching art come alive, only this time you can eat it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Ghazal Qadri, an illustrator and designer originally from Kashmir, now creating under the sunny skies of Florida (and soon moving to Dallas!). My work blends storytelling, culture, and the everyday humor of life into drawings that I hope feel both heartfelt and relatable.
I’m especially excited about my upcoming graphic novel project, Say Something, Poupeh Babaee! (written by Dr. Haleh Massey, illustrated by me). It’s a funny, poignant, and very timely story about Poupeh, an Iranian girl navigating selective mutism, immigration challenges, and the power of finding her voice. I can’t wait for readers to meet her.
I’m also working on another book close to my heart: R for Ramadan-a children’s title that will be out in 2027. Alongside these larger projects, I create small daily-life comics, often light and playful, inspired by tiny observations, humor, and the quirks of everyday moments. They’ve become a diary of sorts, where I illustrate life as it unfolds.
On the side, I’m exploring new stationery products featuring my illustrations, bringing art into everyday objects in a fun and accessible way. And as I prepare to move to Dallas, I’m excited about reconnecting with the vibrancy of a diverse city again (though I’ll miss Florida’s wild gators and sunshine!).
At the heart of my work is the belief that stories- whether told through books, comics, or a doodle on a notepad, can comfort, spark joy, and help us feel a little less alone.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has shaped me the most is the one I share with my papa. He’s been both my anchor and my compass, always pushing me to grow, to never settle, and to face the world with courage.
As an artist, he nurtured my creativity and made me believe that imagination truly mattered. But beyond art, he shaped me into a strong, independent girl who isn’t afraid to take risks, speak up, or walk her own path. He taught me resilience, how to pick myself up after setbacks, and to always chase growth whether in my sketchbook or in life. He has this way of guiding me with knowledge, reminding me to stay curious, and giving me the vigor to keep learning and striving to be better. Honestly, a lot of the fearlessness and passion people see in me today is just the echo of my dad’s voice telling me, ‘You’ve got this.’
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
Something I secretly miss is the free-flowing mind I had before adulthood set in. Back then, ideas came rushing in like an open faucet. Now my brain feels more like a traffic jam, clogged with responsibilities, bills, and the daily drama of being a grown-up. Sometimes I struggle to ideate or draw as effortlessly as I used to, and I miss that playful, unfiltered creativity.”
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My friends would probably say what matters most to me is staying grounded in my values, taking care of the people I love, and pouring my heart into storytelling through art. They know I find joy in the little everyday things like sketching funny slices of life or chasing that perfect cup of chai.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
feel at peace when I’m surrounded by my loved ones and can just be myself. I also find calm in drawing without any rules and in quietly watching birds, it’s those little moments that recharge me the most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ghazalqadri.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/____alif/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghazalqadri/
