As a self-taught artist, it was her sheer passion and commitment to mastering her craft which led to this young and talented individual becoming a sensation in our community. From creating masterpieces on canvas, Hamda Farooq is also paving the way for creative tunnels of communication as she uses her series ‘Voices’ to depict stories of individuals from various walks of life.
Social Diary was delighted to get a chance to speak to this fascinating artist who is escalating to great heights with her impeccable style which has caught the eye of many as she continues to portray her paintings through a platform of uniqueness and freshness.
Here’s getting to know her artisan ways a little more:
SD: What led you into the world of creating art?
Hamda: What led me to the world of art was the need to express and let out all the bottled up thoughts in my head. That is how I officially started my first oil painting series ‘voices’, to give my voice a platform and touch different topics focusing on the voices that matter.
SD: Did you go through any professional learning mechanism to master your craft?
Hamda: As I am a self-taught artist, there was no formal way of learning or something that I can point out promptly. Painting itself has been a learni
ng process, being my own critic and wanting to explore more.
SD: Have there ever been moments where you went in doubt to what you were pursuing?
Hamda: Something that I’ve realized is that you can’t always be in the right mind to be able to work, sometimes there’s just a feeling of a temporary blockade. That is when you have to remind yourself of why you’re doing this, what it means to you and why you started in the first place.
SD: How has art been a portal of expression for you?
Hamda: What kept me engaged is the feeling to say something or express. Whatever I’ve strongly wanted to get across, I’ve painted, since this is the best way, I know. But the process does not end there, releasing my videos really excites and motivates me as it gives it closure.
SD: What was the first painting you made which gave you the boost to explore this field further?
Hamda: The first painting I made was a portrait of Michael Jackson using poster paints, back in school in 8th grade.
SD: How strong role did your school play in getting your work polished?
Hamda: Yes, in school I was very well known for my expertise as I was winning every other art competition and no one else was painting like that. My paintings are still hanging on the walls there.
SD: Do you feel your work has progressed in ways of challenging your own self to do better?
Hamda: I’ve been able to express in different ways and challenge myself, gaining a better understanding over time which has helped the work to mature.
SD: Share with our readers about your ‘Voice Series’?
Hamda: I portray my art work through videography content shot in a story telling manner. Each chapter of the voices series is different from another; involving the process, voice over and the reveal of the final outcome.
SD: As someone who is self-taught, do you feel your work stands in contrast to those who get professional training?
Hamda: I don’t think that art can be taught or downloaded from an institution or a person, because there isn’t a set standardized result. Art is not an external thing; it is something found within. So being self-taught doesn’t sound like a separate thing from the art to me. You can learn and grow but you can only do that on your own, being your own teacher. Therefore, there are challenges but not drawbacks and strengths that are unique for every person
SD: What are your ‘artistic’ future plans?
Hamda: I hope to broaden my reach and horizon. I’ve already started working on my second series. I hope good and greater things are in store
Hamda: Yes! International exhibits are on the list, would love to be able to reach every place and market
SD: How important do you feel Government support is to grooming local talent specifically potential artists?
Hamda: Government support for youngsters and local talent is crucial. If talented artists or skilled people are promoted and the platform is supported, physically and virtually through provision of international services it would ease things and encourage activity.
SD: Your words of advice to those still trying to find their true calling?
Hamda: Just keep on doing what you believe in, it’s okay to not have everything figured out. Focus on what you have and what you’re good at, and see where it leads for every step counts.
In a Glance:
Favorite Artist
Fascinated by all the great artists, but someone’s skill I find really amazing is Michelangelo
Favorite Painting
Sistine chapel painting by Michelangelo. It can never not be impressive
The one person you gain inspiration from
I gain inspiration from any valuable thought coming from anywhere or anyone. But if I were to mention someone Michael Jackson has been a great source of inspiration growing up
Eating Out or Dining In
Eating out for sure
A Pakistani artist you appreciate
Sadequain
Favourite Movie
Corpse bride
The one thing you can’t live without
Faith…and my glasses
Three things in your bag always
Phone, sanitizer and glasses cleaning cloth
The one thing that annoys you
Unnecessary complications
The one thing you regret
I don’t regret anything, I am in this moment because of everything happened the way it did
Morning person or night owl
Morning person forever
Desi Wear or Western Apparel
The way desi wear beautifies western wear can’t but I still happen to go for Western wear
Painting is …
Expressing feelings and words as well as things that can’t be put into words
If you weren’t an artist, you would have been a
Years from now I’ll be able to answer this better. Being an artist is a part of me but there’s so much more, therefore I feel like I’m just in the beginning. I have an entrepreneurial mindset, hence planning my own initiatives.
