By Kimberly Alexsandra Madrigal

Sarah Zareen Nakhoda, a third year Cal Poly Humboldt environmental education major from the South Bay Area unwinds at the end of her busy days with the help of her sketch pad and some cannabis. 

This is when she gets in the perfect mindspace to create her unique vibrant, bedazzled and bold pieces. From custom lyric books to redwood fashionista fairies and bejeweled lampshades, she proudly donates 100% of proceeds from her art to help aid Palestinian families. 

Coming from a creative and artistic family, Nakhoda got her start in sketching in high school, when she would create darker, emo inspired art that reflected the place in life she was in.  

Once she came to college, she began to feel happier and her art reflected that, as almost all of her pieces are vibrant and some, if not most, are bedazzled. 

“It’s a way for me to express myself — I’m not really that good at writing, but a picture says a thousand words,” Nakhoda said.

Nakhoda donates proceeds directly to Palestinian families’ Gofundme’s she finds via social media.

Her motivation for donating 100% of proceeds was her way of turning her passion and as a way to give back. She understands that with the economic state of the world right now, it may be hard for most people, especially fellow students to support and donate financially. She has been able to find a fulfilling balance, turning her passion into a way to make a meaningful impact. Despite not profiting financially, she explains it doesn’t feel like a loss, but a privilege to be able to use her talent and creativity to help others. 

“Art can show people’s feelings in ways that writing can’t,” Nakhoda said. “I think it’s really cool to see all this street art fighting for what’s right.” 

She plans to keep creating and encourages anyone to reach out if interested in supporting her art and this cause. This summer she is more than willing to take commissions of any vibe or color scheme. She works with any budget and is willing to ship within the U.S. 

Contact @artbyszn4palestin333 on Instagram for commission inquiries. 

Kimberly Alexsandra Madrigal is a 3rd year Journalism major from Fresno, CA who enjoys spring, wired earphones, unemployed friend activities and lavender matcha.