We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sarah ELQA. Check out our conversation below.
Sarah , 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 do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
First 90 Minutes of my day as an Artist,mother & partner :
0–30 Minutes: Wake Up + Body & Bonding
I wake naturally or gently around 7:00 AM. My son Enzo is the one to wake me, full of curiosity and morning energy.
Then 5–10 minutes of gentle stretching : Shoulder rolls, hip openers, spinal twists—easy stretches to awaken your artist’s body.
My son join in playfully and watch me stretch on the mat.
Bathroom, teeth, dressing—all together or rotating duty with your partner.
30–60 Minutes: Breakfast + Planning Together
Simple, nourishing breakfast for the family
Talk through the day’s creative goals, parenting logistics, any shared studio plans.
Quick to-do list setting tone for my art and the rest of our day: A Flow Between Art, Family, and Self
60–90 Minutes: Setup & Space for Creativity
My son goes to school or begins free play if it is Wednesday or the weekend. Me and my husband set up for creative time:
I might prep my studio corner, pull out a canvas, arrange paints.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was Born in Morocco; grew up there before establishing my self in France— and now I live in France
I am a self-taught painter, previously worked for ten years as a stylist, viewing fashion and art as parallel modes of expression
I am also descended from the French Fauvist painter Maurice Devlaminck, a heritage that deeply informs my artistic perspective
My work is part of the “Rich and Colorful Figurations” movement, featuring vivid colors, simplified forms, and emotional resonance
I create atypical figures and imagined characters whose faces and gestures evoke strong emotions and evoke reflections on contemporary urban life
My “Movement” series, for example, explores the frenetic energy of city crowds viewed from above—a metaphor for modern society and collective identity
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My Husband, My First Artistic Support :
My husband Grégoire Devin has been a painter for much longer than I have. His journey, experience, and sensitivity have always been a source of inspiration to me. But beyond his talent, it is his kind perspective and constant encouragement that truly changed my life.
He was the first to advise and motivate me to bring my work out of the shadows. He helped me believe in my artistic path, take it seriously, and share it with others. Thanks to him, I found the courage to show my work to the world, to fully embrace it—and even to start selling it, which once felt unimaginable.
We share the same passion for painting, which makes our bond even stronger. Every day, he is a real support: we exchange ideas, give each other advice, and inspire one another. This ongoing dialogue fuels our creativity and enriches our shared artistic journey.
I am deeply grateful to have him by my side—not only as a life partner, but also as a guide and a true companion in this beautiful adventure that is art.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I had the opportunity to speak to my younger self, I’d tell her this: “You have a genuine gift — even if you don’t quite see it yet. Don’t be afraid to trust yourself and to embrace every opportunity, no matter how daunting it may seem. Most importantly, never let doubt or negativity from others silence your dreams. Stay true to your vision, follow your instincts, and keep creating with heart and purpose.”
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’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My goal is to expand my charitable involvement on an international scale. Currently, I am deeply engaged as a painter in solidarity initiatives, particularly in France and Africa. I have been fortunate to have my artworks sold in support of the Princess Grace Foundation of Monaco, which helps children, as well as for the Ronald McDonald Foundation and the SOS Gazelles association, which works with children in Senegal.
It’s very important to me that my art can have a tangible impact and assist those most in need, especially children. Witnessing the suffering experienced by so many people around the world is deeply moving, and it’s precisely this that drives me to use my talent as a means of kindness and hope, contributing to the happiness of others.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I am proud today to say that I am fully living my passion, without confining myself to the conventional path often taught during our studies. Of course, I am grateful to have followed an educational path that gave me solid skills and a strong professional foundation. However, I did not continue in that field: although I studied hotel management, I did not feel fulfilled there. Working for someone else didn’t suit me; I needed independence and freedom. Today, as a self-employed painter, I finally feel that freedom and personal fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sarahelqa.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahlqa/?hl=fr
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
