Tracy Dahir

From Gourds to Greatness: The Artistic Journey of Tracy Dahir

At 61, Tracy Dahir proves that it’s never too late to embrace your creative spark. Though she’s only been creating gourd art for three years, her passion and talent shine brightly through her one-of-a-kind pieces.

“What inspires you to create art?”
For Tracy, inspiration is everywhere, but her biggest muse is nature. “She provides the gourds, the colors, and endless subjects for me to share with others,” she says. Tracy’s work reflects her deep connection with the natural world, turning something ordinary into extraordinary.

Pride in the Process
While professional accolades validate her art, Tracy’s proudest moments come from watching people’s reactions. “Seeing smiles on people’s faces when they connect with one of my pieces—that’s what it’s all about,” she shares.

Art as a Conversation
Tracy describes her work as an ongoing dialogue between herself and her gourds. “Each new piece gives me a new idea,” she explains. Through this process, she feels connected not only to her craft but also to the natural world that inspires her.

Patience is Key
Creating gourd art takes time—sometimes a day or two, sometimes months. “Some conversations are easier to have than others,” Tracy says with a smile. The process, like nature itself, requires patience and care.

What Does She Hope People Take Away?
Tracy’s art carries a simple yet profound message: transformation. “Hopefully, people see that something ordinary can be transformed into something beautiful,” she says. Her pieces remind us of the intricate ecosystem that brings a tiny seed to life and the artist’s role in adding a touch of human creativity.

Overcoming Adversity
Growing up in a low-income, uneducated family, Tracy learned to appreciate life’s simple joys and to be resourceful. “From cloth, you make a quilt; from seed, you grow food; and from a moldy, dried-out gourd, you make a beautiful piece of artwork,” she reflects. This resilience and creativity have shaped her into the artist she is today.

Where to Find Tracy’s Work
You can explore Tracy’s stunning gourd art on her Facebook page: Tracy Dahir.

Recognition and Awards
Tracy’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. She’s received multiple accolades, including:

  • Best in Dimensional, People’s Choice, and 1st Place at the Mineola League of the Arts

  • 1st Place in Dimensional Art at the Texas State Fair

Why EAH?
Tracy joined the Edom Art House because of its unique community of artists. “I’m humbled to be chosen,” she says. “I look forward to building relationships and sharing art with such a uniquely artistic group of people.”

A Final Note
Tracy Dahir’s journey is a testament to the beauty of transformation and the power of creativity. Through her gourd art, she not only connects with nature but also brings joy and inspiration to those who encounter her work. If you’re looking for art that tells a story and resonates with the soul, Tracy’s creations are a must-see.