New York City’s First Lady, Rama Duwaji, provided an exclusive look into her creative life during a studio visit at Gracie Mansion. The interview explores her dual identity as a ceramicist and illustrator and her transition into the political spotlight, showcasing the personal practice behind her public role.
Syrian-American artist Rama Duwaji discusses her evolving art practice and her new role as the First Lady of New York City following her husband Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral victory. Known for her distinct illustrations and animations for major institutions like the Tate Modern and the New Yorker, Duwaji is now transitioning into a more public-facing life while maintaining a studio practice at Gracie Mansion. Her work, which spans hand-drawn animation, ceramics, and paintings on found materials like cardboard, continues to blur the lines between commercial illustration and fine art.