Sulafa Hijazi

Sulafa Hijazi: Bridging Tradition and Digital Innovation Through Cinematic Storytelling

Born in Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic, in 1977, Sulafa Hijazi stands as a compelling figure in contemporary art—a director and multidisciplinary artist whose work seamlessly blends theatrical roots with cutting-edge digital media. Her artistic journey began amidst the turbulent backdrop of Syria’s uprising and subsequent exile, experiences that profoundly shaped her creative vision and fueled an unwavering commitment to exploring themes of identity, displacement, and social responsibility. Hijazi honed her skills at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Damascus, specializing in dramatic studies, followed by a Master's degree in New Media Design from the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in Berlin. This dual academic foundation provided her with invaluable insight into storytelling across various mediums—from theater to animation and film—laying the groundwork for her distinctive artistic approach.

Early Career & Theater Roots

Hijazi’s initial foray into filmmaking stemmed from a desire to confront media stereotypes and champion justice within the music industry. She established Blue Dar, a digital art production house, fostering collaboration with international experts—artists, writers, researchers, educators, and animators—a testament to her belief in collective creativity. This formative experience instilled in her a deep understanding of visual narratives and their capacity to provoke thought and inspire action.

Spacetoon & Pioneering Children’s Television

Recognizing the importance of visual storytelling for young audiences, Hijazi joined the founding team of Spacetoon, Syria's first Arabic satellite channel dedicated to children’s programming. This engagement solidified her dedication to crafting narratives that foster empathy and critical thinking—a core principle guiding her artistic endeavors. The challenge of communicating complex ideas through accessible mediums became a defining element of her creative process.

Film Awards & Recognition

Her directorial prowess earned accolades on an international scale, notably securing the Golden Prize for Best Animation Film at the 7th International Children's Film Festival in Bangalore (India) and the Cannes Lions Grand Prix Cristal Award for “The Jasmine Birds,” cementing her reputation as a visionary filmmaker. This prestigious recognition underscored the power of animation to convey profound messages and resonate across cultures.

Institutional Involvement & Artistic Patronage

Hijazi served on the Board of Directors of CIFEJ (International Center of Films for Children and Young People) from 2012 to 2017, furthering her commitment to promoting inclusive filmmaking practices and supporting emerging talent. She also contributed to projects like Every Story Matters, championed by Creative Europe, aiming to broaden access to literature for children and young adults. Her dedication to fostering artistic dialogue and empowering young voices exemplifies her belief in the transformative potential of art.

Museum Collections & Artistic Legacy

Her artworks have garnered recognition from prestigious institutions including the British Museum in London, Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah, and IMS (International Media Support) Copenhagen, demonstrating her enduring influence on the artistic landscape and solidifying her place as a storyteller who confronts complex social issues with grace and innovation. Her work continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, reflecting a profound engagement with themes of identity, displacement, and the role of media in shaping perceptions—a legacy that transcends borders and speaks to universal human experiences. “What has been important to me is to create work that resonates on both a local and a global level,” she reflects. “No matter what our cultural identity or signifiers, ultimately, the same issues touch every human being.”