By Nora Titus
Alex Oubari never ceases to spread his warmth: he opened up when delivering a fantastic speech on his multiculturalism, and agreed to open up to a curious writer who was hoping to delve further into the wonder that is Alex.
“My favorite part of being so multicultural is that I can relate to so many people,” he explains, reclining comfortably on an armchair and looking cozy in warm pyjamas. “I can also incorporate it into my studies such as human geography, something I’m excelling at and I really enjoy. I love music, minimal techno and rather “chill songs.” For example, "Changes" by FAUL. You should check him out. Anyways, I’m always creating new playlists and sharing them with friends and family. I also like remixed old songs, like 70s and 80s oldies. My playlists vary with my mood and sometimes with the season, from rap to Bob Marley to heavy techno to chill songs. It really depends on my mood. ”
“So, is there anything else you do?” I quip, my interest peaked.
He doesn’t hesitate: “I’m also a huge skier, it’s one of my biggest passions. We used to go skiing every week when I lived in Italy. Whistler is one of the reasons I was convinced about moving to Canada!”
I laugh with him, admiring the ease with which he presents himself, “I have to ask. How do you view yourself as an artist?”
“My favorite part of being so multicultural is that I can relate to so many people,” he explains, reclining comfortably on an armchair and looking cozy in warm pyjamas. “I can also incorporate it into my studies such as human geography, something I’m excelling at and I really enjoy. I love music, minimal techno and rather “chill songs.” For example, "Changes" by FAUL. You should check him out. Anyways, I’m always creating new playlists and sharing them with friends and family. I also like remixed old songs, like 70s and 80s oldies. My playlists vary with my mood and sometimes with the season, from rap to Bob Marley to heavy techno to chill songs. It really depends on my mood. ”
“So, is there anything else you do?” I quip, my interest peaked.
He doesn’t hesitate: “I’m also a huge skier, it’s one of my biggest passions. We used to go skiing every week when I lived in Italy. Whistler is one of the reasons I was convinced about moving to Canada!”
I laugh with him, admiring the ease with which he presents himself, “I have to ask. How do you view yourself as an artist?”
“Well...I don’t consider myself to be much of an artist. But it means a lot to me. Through my music and graphic design I did last year, I was able to express myself. I really wanted to to send a message through each design and introduce my point of view. My first project was to raise awareness about how we waste water, and I was so happy to have created something meaningful.”
“That sounds wonderful. You seem to be sure of your creations, do you have any advice for other artists?
“My advice would to be yourself and express yourself in the way you love because you can dedicate more of your time to it and you are more passionate about it; you will create something you love. It’s important to do what you love, don’t you think?”
Agreeing, I ask, “How did you feel when you were chosen to and were presenting?”
Here, Alex grins and admits, “For my speech, I was totally surprised. I barely practiced for the classroom rounds, and when I got into semifinals, I was shocked. I was even more surprised when I made it to finals; I had to memorize my speech in two days. I was so nervous for that day, but I loved being in front of people and talking about people and bringing us all together. I even forgot part of my speech and took a whole 15 seconds to collect myself. I talked, trying to fill the void, and in the end it wasn’t too awkward so I guess I’m happy.”
“Don’t even remember that lapse,” I reassured him. “Now, since we’re on the topic of artists in general, do you have any comments regarding Arts Mag or the featured artists?”
“I thought Stanley Li’s from last year was really cool. I didn’t know he could play piano so well, and I thought Anna Stuber’s write up was incredible. I was proud my friend was featured, I never really thought I would be featured, I’m really honoured Mme Mofazali asked me to participate.
“I’d like to add I wrote this speech because I wanted to reflect on my life and see how I’ve evolved. I think it’s important to look back once in a while, so we can continue.”
Right on, Alex, write on!
“That sounds wonderful. You seem to be sure of your creations, do you have any advice for other artists?
“My advice would to be yourself and express yourself in the way you love because you can dedicate more of your time to it and you are more passionate about it; you will create something you love. It’s important to do what you love, don’t you think?”
Agreeing, I ask, “How did you feel when you were chosen to and were presenting?”
Here, Alex grins and admits, “For my speech, I was totally surprised. I barely practiced for the classroom rounds, and when I got into semifinals, I was shocked. I was even more surprised when I made it to finals; I had to memorize my speech in two days. I was so nervous for that day, but I loved being in front of people and talking about people and bringing us all together. I even forgot part of my speech and took a whole 15 seconds to collect myself. I talked, trying to fill the void, and in the end it wasn’t too awkward so I guess I’m happy.”
“Don’t even remember that lapse,” I reassured him. “Now, since we’re on the topic of artists in general, do you have any comments regarding Arts Mag or the featured artists?”
“I thought Stanley Li’s from last year was really cool. I didn’t know he could play piano so well, and I thought Anna Stuber’s write up was incredible. I was proud my friend was featured, I never really thought I would be featured, I’m really honoured Mme Mofazali asked me to participate.
“I’d like to add I wrote this speech because I wanted to reflect on my life and see how I’ve evolved. I think it’s important to look back once in a while, so we can continue.”
Right on, Alex, write on!