New Folk: Rew

The work of Cairo-based Rew (AKA Mariam ElReweny) spans digital illustrations, art direction, mural design and movie posters. Her background in oils can be seen across her portfolio: from a sun-dappled portrait of Coco Gauff for Wimbledon, to her Sudan-set animation for Unicef, to her vintage movie-style doodle for Google.

“Drawing was the thing I loved the most, as soon as I learned that I can do that for a living I didn’t think twice,” says Rew. “I’m inspired by everything I see and hear: the people around me, the movies I watch, colour combinations in nature.”

Rew says she is inspired by the fashion world. She often depicts characters in interesting garments, in her self-described style of ‘unrealistic reality,’ inspired by the craftsmanship of the great designers. “I practised my fabric drawing by using clothing as a reference,” she explains. “I fell in love with fashion, and now follow the scene, watching documentaries about old designers and beginning to see their pieces as art.”

Expect much more golden-hour imagery and half-past-midnight Saharan skies from Rew.