Hello Hassan, please introduce yourself to our readers.

First of all, thank you for your interest in my work; it’s truly an honor to share my artistic journey with the readers of such a prestigious magazine.
My name is Hassan Hajila, and I am a Visual Artist and Art Director originally from Morocco, now living in Toronto.
Art has always been a deep passion of mine. I am particularly drawn to creations that engage the mind and play with perceptions, inviting viewers to see the world through a different lens. My art can be described as conceptual, carrying meaningful messages that inspire change and provoke thought, ultimately transforming the way people interpret their surroundings and ideas.
By this process, I love to create experiences that ignite discussions and encourage deeper reflection.

How did it all begin with your art of sensual illustration?

I have always been fascinated by the female body. It is for this reason it returns very often in my works. I like to explore all its curves and shapes, and also all its little details that I value to make a special work.
However, there is also music that inspires me a lot. It may seem silly, but each of my projects is linked to a song that I listen to on loop during its realization. It allows me to be in total immersion to create a small fictitious world specific to the creation.

Is there a procedure on how you work? Can you describe it?

My work is deeply rooted in metaphor, and the process is quite intricate. It all begins with a concept or wordplay that captures my imagination. From there, I start exploring how to translate that idea into a visual metaphor, often using the human body to convey the story.
I spend a lot of time finding the perfect balance between the concept and the imagery, ensuring that the visual elements align with the underlying meaning. This can involve experimenting with different poses, lighting, and compositions until everything feels just right.
Once I have a clear vision, I move on to photographing live models, carefully directing them to embody the essence of the story I want to tell. After the shoot, I manipulate the images, blending them with abstract elements to enhance the narrative. Every detail is meticulously crafted to create a final piece that is both sensual and thought-provoking.
The entire process is about refining and perfecting the idea until it resonates on both a visual and emotional level, inviting viewers to engage with the story and draw their own interpretations.

What are (or have been) your influences?

My influences have been driven by visual art, specifically conceptual photography that focuses on storytelling. It fascinates me for its ability to capture not just an image, but an idea, a narrative, or an emotion that resonates profoundly. This genre of photography often challenges viewers to look deeper and engage with the underlying messages.

Do you have (or had) any idols?

Yes, I admire individuals who have the courage to express themselves freely and share their creations without limitations, regardless of others’ judgments. These idols inspire me with their ability to push boundaries and stay true to their vision, demonstrating the power of authentic self-expression and creativity.

What’s your definition of beauty?

For me, beauty is omnipresent—it’s always there, waiting to be seen. It’s all about perception and how each person views the world. The more you cultivate your mind to appreciate beauty, the more you’ll discover it in everything around you, whether it’s the shape of a cloud, the texture of a piece of fabric, or the charm of a beautiful smile. Beauty is a matter of perspective, and it’s about finding that special something in the ordinary and extraordinary alike.

From the images presented here, do you have a favorite and what makes it so special?
In a way, I love most of my creations because each one carries its own story and significance. What makes any piece special to me is the moment when the concept clicks—when a wordplay perfectly merges with a visual metaphor. That’s when I see the light at the end of a dark tunnel, and it’s in that moment that I take the most pleasure in crafting the image. So, rather than having a single favorite, I cherish the process and the unique journey each piece represents.

What do you consider your biggest strength as an artist?

I believe my biggest strength as an artist is my ability to consistently see visual metaphors in everything around me. This ability helps me train and develop my imagination daily, allowing me to find inspiration in even the smallest details. My keen sense of detail, combined with creativity and a passion for storytelling, is what truly defines and drives my work.

What was your biggest success so far?

I think my biggest success so far is having a large audience understanding and appreciating my art and the concept behind it. I love watching people look at my art and witnessing their reactions when they contemplate it. That teaches me more about their personality.

Are there goals you want to achieve in the future?

Looking ahead, my ambition is to have my creations travel and be appreciated by a large, diverse audience. A dream come true for me would be to see my work exhibited internationally, allowing people from all around the world to experience and connect with the stories and emotions behind each piece.