Dive into the vibrant world of creativity with the unstoppable force that is artist Asna Waseem! With a fiery passion and a fearless spirit, Asna fearlessly explores the depths of artistic expression, breaking free from the shackles of convention to deliver breathtaking masterpieces that challenge the norm and awaken the soul. In a conversation with Social Diary, Asna unveils the secrets behind her mesmerizing creations and shares the untold stories pulsating within each stroke of her brush. From the ethereal beauty of her paintings to the soul-stirring narratives woven into her sculptures, Asna’s art transcends boundaries, inviting audiences to embark on a transformative journey of discovery and enlightenment.Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Asna Waseem, where every canvas becomes a portal to new dimensions of thought and emotion. Get ready to be spellbound, inspired, and utterly captivated by the visionary genius of this extraordinary artist!
SD: How did you venture into the field of art?
Asna: I grew up in a family that is creative, artistic, and very supportive of arts and crafts in general. This environment inspired me to pursue a degree in Fine Arts. My dad and brother are architects, and my mother is an artisan, which has had a major influence on me.
SD: Did you face any major setbacks when pursuing this field?
Asna: I faced two significant setbacks. initially, I didn’t get admission in NCA on my first attempt, but persevered and successfully secured a spot a year later. The second setback was navigating the challenges posed by COVID-19, which made pursuing art classes exceptionally difficult for 2 years.
SD: What kind of art forms have you dabbled into?
Asna: As an NCA student, I’ve explored a diverse range of art forms, immersing myself in various disciplines to help me discover my creative niche. Over four years, I’ve cultivated skills in painting, miniature art, sculpture, accessory design, weaving, package design, printmaking, and many other artistic expressions.
SD: Do you feel Pakistan has scope when it comes to supporting talented artists and their work?
Asna: Pakistan has an evolving arts and culture scene, and there have been efforts to support and promote talented artists. It has several art institutions, galleries, and platforms that showcase the work of both emerging and established artists.
SD: What kind of art do you project as a printmaker?
Asna: As a printmaker, I am passionate about pushing the boundaries and experimenting with various materials to showcase the utmost skill in my craft. My goal is to create visually appealing and pleasurable imagery that reflects both innovation and mastery in my chosen field of work.
SD: How does your art act as a portal to speak to the viewer’s emotions and imagination?
Asna: My artistic approach is non-representational, devoid of preconceived notions, allowing each piece to remain open to the viewer’s interpretation. I take pleasure in witnessing how my work connects with viewers, revealing perspectives and meanings that I may not have envisioned myself.
SD: Share details about your unique thesis work and how you wished to portray it.
Asna: For my thesis, I aspired to craft a profoundly impactful experience. I conceptualized and built an immersive space designed to temporarily alter the viewer’s reality. Engaging all five senses, I aimed to heighten and overwhelm them, inducing a mind-numbing effect. The space took the form of an 8 ft tall, 17 ft diameter circle made of wooden panels. The entire structure was deliberately in black and white, devoid of color, as I aimed to eliminate any preconceived perceptions associated with color. The imagery within this monochromatic environment comprised intricate lines and patterns, crafting a space to calm the constant noise of thoughts.
SD: How important was it for you to push the boundaries of traditional art?
Asna: I identify as a traditional printmaker, but my approach to execution diverges from the conventional. In my thesis, I took a non-traditional route by cutting my prints, challenging the boundaries of display. I aimed to break free from the confines of a frame, seeking an infinite connection through cutouts and collages.
SD: What comes next? How do you wish to excel in your artistic stance?
Asna: I am committed to producing art that resonates with viewers, captivating their senses, and offering mind-altering experiences. My ongoing journey includes pursuing a master’s degree, allowing me to further explore and expand the boundaries of artistic expression and polish the command over my skills.
SD: Your words of inspiration to those who wish to venture into the field of art and visual expression?
Asna: My only advice is to approach your work with unwavering determination and commitment. Never engage in learning or creating with half a heart and always dedicate 100 percent effort and attention. By doing so, you not only become true to your work but also discover genuine enjoyment in what you pursue. 
