

About the artist & illustrator
My name is Ruba Saqr and I am a Jordanian food and travel artist and illustrator, who loves to explore the folk, tribal and native cultures of the Mediterranean region – and beyond. I am also a multidisciplinary creative who has worn multiple hats, including: Opinion writer and columnist, editor, reporter, PR director and singer-songwriter.

An infatuation with cultural illustration and art
My illustrations and paintings often delve into the lifestyle traditions and culinary cultures of the Arab, Berber and European parts of the Mediterranean region, with a special attention to Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria.
Food traditions, cultural travel, and folkloric fashion are the kinds of topics that fascinate me as an illustrator and artist.
That is why I approach art and illustration with an eye toward “documenting” the authentic dishes of the Mediterranean region, its handcrafts, traditional costumes and architectural landmarks – all through the lens of identity and belonging.
My inclination to chronicle the different facets of the Levantine and Mediterranean cultures – through illustration and art – comes from having worked as a reporter, opinion writer, and editor in a previous life.
As a result, I illustrate food stories, maps, traditional jewellery, and more, with an illustration style that reflects my vision and individual taste as an artist. I also create fine art pieces in oil, acrylic and gouache on paper, depicting the Levantine and Mediterranean gastronomic heritage, food rituals, and impressive repository of craftsmanship.
In addition to my infatuation with Mediterranean cultures, I am also very interested in the arts and crafts of South Asia, especially the rich heritage of the Indian subcontinent and the enduring legacy of the Mughal empire.



More about my cultural and artistic influences
Quick Tour

Illustration Portfolio
Pen-and-ink, watercolour, gouache, alcohol markers and digital brushes are some of the materials I use to complete my illustrations. Curious about my illustration style, process and client commissions?

Art Portfolio
I like to celebrate the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food heritage with art pieces on both canvas and paper, using oil, acrylic, ink, watercolour and gouache.

Illustration Blog
Check out my latest personal projects, where I share my illustrations in a blog centred around storytelling, inspired by the places I’ve been to and the recipes I’ve tried.