Mother and artist Bushra Furqan is queen of home, princess of canvas

Hailing from Pakistan, Bushra Furqan is an artist based in the UAE. But she would not confine herself only to this role. “Not only am I an artist, but I have many other roles,” she says. “I am a loving sister, a nurturing mother, a homemaker, and a passionate creator who finds joy, peace, and purpose through my paintbrush.” Bushra’s journey in art is not one by chance, but follows an inheritance.

Art runs in her blood, so to say, passed down from one generation to the next. Her mother is a talented artist and was Bushra’s first mentor, teaching her not only artistic techniques, but also the emotional depths art can evoke. Bushra’s grandfather was also an artist — a man known in his time for his creativity and craftsmanship. With such a heritage woven into her upbringing, it was only natural for Bushra to pick up the brush and continue the family tradition.

Though life placed her in many roles over time, Bushra always found her way back to the canvas. Her artistic identity blossomed not in isolation, but within the rhythms of home life — between raising her 11-year-old son, Muhammad Hamdaan, and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. In doing this, she proves every day that creativity and care can thrive in harmony in a single space.

“I am a homemaker by role, but an artist by soul,” Bushra says. Her home is both her sanctuary and studio — a space where from rises hand-crafted beauties and the aroma of fresh cooking. She delights in decorating her home, where she blends aesthetics and personal energy, ensuring that every corner reflects the art spirit. Alongside doing up her home, Bushra has a love for culinary creativity. She enjoys trying new recipes, exploring flavours and cooking food not just as a necessity, but as a way of expressing affection for her family and hospitality for guests.

Bushra Furqan (left) and her artwork.

For her, cooking is another form of art — where spices are like colours and dishes are like paintings, coming to life magically and joyfully. Among all her creative outlets, Bushra remains most loyal to painting. Her favourite medium is acrylics, which she utilises masterfully to create lively, expressive and meaningful works. Her artworks often feature bold colours, intricate Mughal motifs, and sometimes tiny mirrors, used to reflect both physical light and deeper metaphorical meanings. One of her signature artistic messages is the belief that “we must sparkle in our daily lives”. Thus her use of mirrors and vibrant hues is not merely decorative — they are symbolic.

She wants her audience to be reminded of their own light, their own value, and their ability to shine, no matter how ordinary or routine a day may seem to be. Bushra does not confine her creativity to traditional canvases. She paints and designs hats, T-shirts, tops, and other wearables — transforming everyday objects into moving pieces of art. Her designs carry her unique style: bright, energetic, filled with grace and cultural depth. Bushra is an active and respected figure in the UAE’s vibrant art community. She frequently participates in group exhibitions and creative platforms that highlight both her technical skill and artistic talent.

Among her noteworthy engagements was at the Pakistan Day Art Exhibition (Mar. 24, Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel), where her work was noted for its monumental cultural richness and intricate, personal touches. Her contribution mirrored not only her Pakistani roots, but also her desire to connect with her homeland through artistic expression. More recently, she has showcased her Mughal-style painting at the Colors of Unity Art Exhibition (July 12 – 19, Reem Art Gallery), where she presents a piece featuring traditional motifs enhanced with fresh colours and reflective embellishments. The painting carries a message of hope, brightness and togetherness, which align perfectly with the exhibition’s theme of unity through art. Bushra is also a regular participant in the programmes and exhibitions organised by the Women Business Circle, a growing platform for female entrepreneurs and creatives in the UAE.

Bushra’s art is not about fame — it is about making people happy. She views painting as a way to please others, whether it is by beautifying her home, gifting personalised items, or by participating in events that bring people together. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to spread joy, positivity and beauty through creativity. Despite the demands of motherhood and household responsibilities, she continues to make time for her artistic passion. She spends her quiet hours surrounded by paints, brushes and ideas, using her spare time to explore different artistic mediums.

Her dedication to growth as an artist, despite not being a full-time professional creative, is an example for women who wish to follow their passion for art, while balancing family life. Bushra Furqan is an example of how passion can thrive in any setting — whether in a professional studio or in a hot kitchen. Her work, carrying family heritage, cultural identity and personal spirit, continues to grow aesthetically, remaining deeply connected to her roots. Bushra Furqan is not chasing the spotlight; rather, she creates small sparks of joy that have a ripple effect in the community, through acrylic paintings, wearable art and home décor.