Bahraini artist, director and photographer, Jaan AlBalushi, is a man of many talents – whether he’s picking up a paintbrush or stepping behind the camera.

In an exclusive candid interview, Apple Sharma caught up with him to explore his dynamic personality and passions, including an undeniable love for karak!

fact: When and how did your artistic journey start – did the canvas come first or the camera?
JA: Oh, definitely the canvas! I think I was in grade five or six when I first discovered that sketching during boring classes was actually called ‘art’. Then I got into painting school walls – like actual giant murals, not graffiti (I promise!). But the real chaos started when someone trusted me with a big professional camera for my sister’s wedding. Long story short, she still doesn’t talk about that day. I completely messed it up. So, I ran back to my comfort zone – canvases! Eventually, that led me to video and finally to photography. Basically, my journey is like a Bollywood movie plot…full of drama and random flashbacks!

fact: You wear many creative hats – artist, filmmaker, photographer, teacher. From street art to Flipperachi’s latest Doori video – where do you feel most at home?
JA: All of them! But hey, you forgot to mention Harley rider and professional karak taster! I get bored super quickly, so doing the same thing every day would drive me crazy. I love trying new things, learning different styles and keeping my creative muscles confused. But if I were to choose one soulmate, it would be art – pure, messy, emotional, anything-goes kind of art. That’s my home.

fact: With over 15 years in the industry, what continues to inspire your creativity and is there one thing you know now that you wish you’d learnt at the start?
JA: Alhamdulillah, a lot of my learning came through doing real work with real clients, which means I made real mistakes! But if I could go back and whisper something into young Jaan’s ear, it would be: “Hey bro, media and art are gold – don’t waste time selling apartments and fixing internet cables!” I used to work in real estate while studying IT – yes, that was a wild combo. But the fire really started when I realised the true value of creativity.

fact: You’ve taught workshops across the globe. Has there been a moment during one of these sessions that’s stayed with you?
JA: Oh yes – two moments are actually tattooed on my heart. The first was at the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles (I know, confusing, right?). I went there for a filmmaking course but somehow ended up giving a motivational speech on their stage. Don’t ask how that happened but I still have goosebumps thinking about it! The second one was when I gave a talk at the University of Bahrain in front of more than 1,000 students. I was about to cry – not out of fear but because I felt so proud and happy. I mean, who cries from happiness during public speaking? Apparently, I do.

fact: Having been behind the camera for international commercials and films – what’s been your favourite project and what’s your dream collaboration?
JA: Definitely my feature film Zaraab, which I shot in the breathtaking lands of Balochistan back in 2018. It picked up a few international awards and a whole lot of love. But honestly, every project I work on feels like a baby (a moody, unpredictable, budget-blowing baby – but still a baby!) As for dream collabs? Hmm…maybe something with Wes Anderson or Christopher Nolan but shot in Sitra with karak breaks in between!

fact: What’s one unexpected thing you always travel with when you’re on a shoot abroad?
JA: A proper karak dallah [Arabic pot]! Not kidding. While others pack extra batteries and gimbals, I’m out here brewing karak in remote villages or city rooftops. I even once offered it to a customs officer – he let me pass with a smile. Karak is not just a drink, it’s a lifestyle! ✤

GO: FOLLOW @JAANALBALUSHI ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Just For Fun
fact: Early mornings or late nights?
JA: Very, very, very late nights. Like vampire-level late.
fact: Studio or location?
JA: Both – but locations make it feel like an adventure (with sunburn and insect bites included).
fact: Instagram or TikTok?
JA: Insta! TikTok is like my hyper cousin I visit sometimes but can’t keep up with.
fact: Netflix or cinema?
JA: Cinema, hands down. Popcorn, surround sound, awkward first trailers – I love it all.
fact: Coffee or karak?
JA: Karaaak! Like…do I even look like a coffee person?