Nature on her canvas: Andleeb Khan’s artwork is a paean to Nature’s charisma

Andleeb Khan is an Indian artist based in the UAE. A dedicated educator, she holds a Master’s Degree in Linguistics from Aligarh Muslim University, India, and is skilled in teaching artistic expression, seeking opportunities to merge both interests. Proficient in various art techniques such as painting, mixed media art and glass painting among others, she finds inspiration in nature’s beauty.

She creates vibrant, floral landscapes using acrylics, texture paints, and mixed media through richly layered compositions. One of her paintings, Whisper of Lush, showcases the intricate balance of flora and fauna; the artwork is on a forest, evoking its sights, sounds and scents.

Another painting titled Serenity, is a view of majestic mountains rising from a misty valley, slightly covered with snow. There are many more others, but let Andleeb Khan speak about her rendezvous with art

Misty mountains, reflecting lake and little cottage.

Have you had formal training in Art? Or are you self-taught?

From a very young age, I found myself drawn to the intricate details of life. As a self-taught artist, through dedication and perseverance, I’ve honed my skills, teaching myself various techniques and mediums. In every stroke of pencil or brush, I pour my heart and soul into my creations, bringing my vision to life.

Why does Nature attract you as an artist?

Nature attracts me because it speaks to my soul. I see it as the ultimate masterpiece the Supreme Power has gifted to us. Its beauty, complexity and simplicity all blend together to create a world of awe and discovery. As an artist, I try my best to capture its vibrant colours, soothing melodies and gentle whispers. My love for plants and greenery plays a very crucial role in my art.

Flora, fauna and portrait.

Who are the artists who inspire you? Why?

My earliest artistic inspiration came from my grandfather, a gifted free-hand artist, who effortlessly brought landscapes, birds, and animals to life on paper. The Picasso of India, M.F Husain, is another inspiration; I was impressed that despite lack of opportunities and hard times, his contribution to Indian art industry is outstanding. Vincent Van Gogh is also on my list: he painted numerous landscapes, capturing scenes from nature with beautiful, bold colours and expressive brush strokes.

Where in India did you find Nature for your works?

I have found inspiration from beautiful places like the Himalayas with its majestic ranges of mountains, valleys, and lakes. The Western Ghats (mountains), with lush greenery, waterfalls and villages surrounded by Nature’s splendour, have had a profound impact on my artistic perspective. The rustic charm of village life, with its serene atmosphere, has also left an indelible mark on my artistic soul.

Setting for a picnic.

Why do you like your works to be colourful?

Colour is central to how I express emotions, memories and identity. I am drawn to bold, vibrant palettes because they reflect the energy of the environment. Whether it’s the colourful festivals and textiles of India or the vivid contrast of the UAE’s urban and desert land, colours allow me to tell layered stories, with each hue carrying symbolic and emotional weight.

How does the UAE influence you as an artist?

The UAE is a place of contrast and co-existence where traditions and modernity fuse together. It allows not only me, but every single individual from diverse backgrounds and culture to be on the same platform, celebrating cultural differences with utmost respect and sincerity. This dynamic environment has pushed me to think about hybridity and multicultural identity in my work.

Can you compare and contrast India’s art ecology and that of the UAE’s?

Comparing India’s and UAE’s art ecologies reveals distinct differences, shaped by their unique cultural, historical and economic contexts. Both countries have a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of traditional and modern art forms. Indian art is deeply rooted in its diverse heritage, including Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam, while the UAE’s art scene is heavily influenced by Islamic traditions, with diverse cultural backgrounds on an international level. It is expanding itself in almost every art form. Indian art often features vibrant colours, intricate patterns and emotive expressions, whereas UAE’s art frequently incorporates Islamic calligraphy, geometric patterns and desert landscapes. India’s art market is more established, with a longer history of galleries, auctions and art fairs, while the UAE’s art market has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by its status as a global art hub.

Andleeb Khan is based in the UAE.

How can art build a bridge between the Emirates and India?

Art can be a powerful bridge between the Emirates and India, fostering cultural understanding, economic cooperation and people-to-people connections. Cultural exchange programmes and collaborative art projects and exhibitions allow artists from both countries to share perspectives and learn from each other; joint art initiatives such as co-curated exhibitions, art festivals and workshops, can showcase the rich cultural heritage and contemporary art scene of both nations, promoting mutual understanding and appreciation. They can lead to new economic opportunities, in fields such as cultural tourism.

What is the message of your artworks?

My artwork aims to transport viewers to a world of serenity, positivity and optimism, inviting them to cherish every moment and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. I hope to inspire viewers to slow down, appreciate the present and find solace in the beauty of nature. The message is one of hope, renewal and positivity. I believe that nature has the power to heal, inspire and uplift us; I aim to capture this in my art.