Emerging artist Afshan Nawaz Khan is a star in the established art world
- 31 Aug 2023
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Afshan Nawaz Khan,14, is a young emerging artist, based in Dubai. She is pursuing higher school studies at Our Own English High School, Sharjah, and is a self-taught artist. “I love to paint, sketch, do calligraphy and draw mandalas,” says Khan. “I’ve won multiple awards and participation certificates for exhibiting my artworks. I had always been interested in art since a very young age but at the age of nine, it reached its culmination, since I was able to express my ideas on canvas.” The beauty of nature inspires her to paint and explore art. The changing shades of the ocean, sunsets and elements of creation, impress her. She is also a bibliophile who loves to read books; they create images in her mind, which she depicts through art.
She recently exhibited her artwork in World Art Dubai 2023. “It was an incredible experience,” she says. “Under one roof, I was able to meet artists from around the world.” She took part and received a certificate of commendation for the 360° immersive display of her artwork in the Theatre of Digital Art Dubai, during Ekta23.
She was also a part of the exhibition hosted by Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) on Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel. She showed her ‘Ashoka Stambh’ painting at Bharat Utsav 2023 and has displayed her work with DIAC, Funun Art Group, Reem gallery, and Artezaar.
Currently, her painting has been selected by Magrudy’s Jumeirah for its August Edition Art Exhibition and will be on display there August 31 – September 15. She has volunteered with live painting sessions for people of determination at DIAC; she has done so with the doctors and medical staff of Gargash Hospital also.
She has a notable presence on social media and is collaborating with many Art sharing pages. “I am fortunate enough to sell my paintings and work on commissioned pieces,” she says. “My paintings are selling at an average price of Dhs1500 – 4000 now.” Afshan Nawaz Khan speaks to Gulf Today
What are your favourite subjects?
Academically, they include English, Maths and Biology, along with Art.
I want to learn higher skills and techniques that will support me to be a skilled artist in future. In Biology, I love learning about living organisms and plants. Maths is all about problem solving and also about geometry and shapes - which are often used by artists for accurate and precise measurements. Mathematics also explains angles and perspectives. I frequently use precise calculations for my work on Islamic architecture, historical monuments and mandalas. In my opinion, a few circles, squares and triangles coupled with the magic of art, can give vivid life to a canvas.
How does colour impact your art?
I consider colour an important factor in my art as it enhances its beauty and makes it catchy. It’s hard for me to imagine art without colours - they play a significant role in my artwork. I love using watercolours and acrylic colours and currently I’m trying my hands on gouache colours; it is a brilliant medium and has qualities of both watercolour and acrylic, besides drying rapidly. It also acts as a matte surface that does not reflect light.
How have India and the UAE, respectively, influenced your work?
The UAE is a land of opportunities with diverse cultures present in it and blessed with rich Islamic architecture and Emirati culture, which I love to capture on my canvas. I was born and have been brought up in the Emirates; the UAE teaches me cultural and moral values. In addition to this, the country is providing a great platform for young talents to pursue their passions. India is a vast country with diverse cultures and colourful festivals which influence me to bring out the great Indian culture and traditions through art. My favourite Indian art forms includes mandalas. I often create them on paper, coffee mugs and clay pots. Mandalas require precision and possess intricacy: doing them provides a good form of satisfaction.
Does art affect your studies negatively? Or does it enrich it?
I don’t think it affects my studies negatively! With proper time management, I’m able to pursue both things simultaneously. However, at times when I get too many assignments and exams, I’ve to put my artwork aside and concentrate only on my studies. Art making also teaches me dedication and patience, which is required in every field of life.
What has been the response of your school to your talent?
My school has always supported and encouraged me to bring out my best, especially my Arabic teachers Ghada Riad and Samia Melki, along with my art teacher Spriha Majumdar. My school has provided me with immense opportunities both at intra and inter-school level competitions. School has always been a bridge between my talent and openings outside. It is my mirror to the outside world.
How have your classmates reacted to your art?
My classmates appreciate my talent and always applaud my work. They regard me as the Picasso of my school! They motivate me to create more paintings. It’s important for an artist to receive feedback from his or her peers so that they can strive more.
Do you see yourself as a full time artist later in life?
Yes, I’m aspiring to be a full time artist in future. Which is the reason I’m consistent about posting my artwork on Instagram and participating in art exhibitions.