Latest news with #FununArts
Gulf Today
03-06-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Anubha Kaw turns enchantment of silk into entrancement of art
Anubha Kaw spent the last decade exploring various subjects, mediums and techniques of art; however, it was during her sabbatical from a rewarding career in IT, she discovered her true love: silk painting. Nature, spirituality and the serene beauty of the mountains she grew up in Kashmir, are at the heart of her inspiration. She draws from them deeply and brings them to life on the soft, luxurious canvas of silk. Whether it is the emotions provoked by a landscape or quiet moments of reflection, her pieces strive to impart grace and meaning. Her silk creations have reached audiences far and beyond, gaining her international recognition. As a silk artist, Anubha blends tradition, craftsmanship and sustainability in her works. Specialising in hand-painted silk and intricate hand embroidery, she transforms fabric into living tapestries of movement, memory, and connection. Colours depicting Euphoria. Each of her pieces reflect an ongoing dialogue between the past and present, with ancient artistry meeting contemporary mores. Her works are a combination of abstract art on silk, touched and embossed by sinuous hand embroidery. Anubha has exhibited her works widely, including at ADIHEX (2021); #NOFILTERDXB with Artsmiley (2021); RANG with Funun Arts (2022); World Art Dubai with Funun Arts (2022); INDEX Dubai (2022); Group exhibition with First Wish Art Gallery, Tbilisi, Georgia (2023); Art UAQ and World Art Dubai, solo art exhibition (2025), among many others. The awards and recognition she has won include the Best Artwork Award conferred by the Ambassador of India to UAE Sunjay Sudhir at the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi (2022) and the Anni Albers Award for most outstanding Textile and Fiber Artist – Textile Sustainability - at Artistic Luminary Awards, Dubai (2024). She was also chosen to conduct the silk painting workshop at Ras Al Khaimah Art festival (2023). 'Silk is more than a canvas to me,' says Anubha. 'Through it, I explore the dialogues between tradition and transformation. My intention is to create work that not only adorns space, but also tells a visual story - one that bridges craft and fine art, tradition and innovation, personal memory and cultural continuity.' Anubha Kaw speaks to Gulf Today about her tryst with silk Can you tell us how you discovered silk painting? Primarily, I used to work with oil - a medium I love for its depth and richness. But one day, out of sheer curiosity and simply to enjoy a creative outing with my little girl, I booked ourselves a silk painting workshop in Abu Dhabi. The moment I felt the silk and touched the brush to the fabric, I was completely mesmerised. The fluid movement of the dye, the softness of the fabric and the way colours naturally bloomed and blended, felt as though the fabric was breathing with the paint. What began as a casual exploration quickly turned into a deep and evolving passion. What does painting on silk offer that other mediums like oil, mixed media or acrylic cannot? Painting on silk offers a sense of delicacy, spontaneity and flow that I haven't found in other mediums like oil and acrylics. The way the dye or the paint moves across the silk is almost alive. There's also a luminous transparency to silk that allows light to pass through the colours, adding a softness and dimension that feels almost dreamlike. How do you source the silk? I source my silk from trusted suppliers who specialise in high-quality natural fabrics. Whenever possible, I try to support small-scale or ethical producers, as sustainability and quality are both important to my practice. Who are the artists in your genre you find inspirational? Why are they so? I admire Karen Sistek for the way she redefines silk art with scale and emotion. Her beautiful floral paintings on silk capture both delicacy and vibrancy, and her mastery of the medium is truly inspiring. Another artist is John Martono, who influences me for transforming textiles and discarded materials into powerful visual narratives. Can you tell us how you blend cultural traditions and contemporary features? I draw inspiration from traditional textile techniques such as silk painting and embroidery, which carry a deep sense of history and craftsmanship. I also bring a modern perspective through abstract forms, contemporary colour palettes and personal narratives, that reflect the world I live in today. Anubha Kaw smiles at the camera. Why do you think embroidery enhances a silk painting? Silk painting captures movement, light and emotion through colour and natural sheen, whereas embroidery brings in texture, structure, and rhythm. The contrast between the softness of the silk and the precision of the thread, creates a beautiful dialogue that enriches the overall experience of the artwork. Besides landscapes, what are your subjects? My subjects often revolve around emotions, memories, and the unseen rhythms of daily life. I am drawn to abstract forms, organic shapes and subtle gestures that express inner states of being. Sometimes, a piece is inspired by a fleeting feeling, a conversation or even a moment of silence. I also explore the passage of time, movement and human connections that are deeply personal, but also universally felt. What are the stories your works narrate? They speak of transitions, physical and emotional, of places I have been, people I have encountered, and the feelings those experiences have left behind. Through colour, texture and form, I try to capture the invisible threads that bind us, stories of change, resilience, longing, and hope.
Gulf Today
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Salwa Saleem's art flowers with roots in architecture and stems in painting
Visual artist and architect Salwa Saleem says she has a 'passion for creating meaningful Islamic art that blends faith, culture, and creativity.' She walks the talk, because her work focuses on paintings that highlight the beauty of Quranic verses, with intricate calligraphy touched by architectural elements. She works in acrylic, water colour and mixed media. 'As an architect, I draw inspiration from the elegance and depth of Islamic architecture, infusing those influences into my art to create pieces that are both spiritually uplifting and visually captivating,' she says. She is drawn to the beauty of Islamic architecture, its intricate patterns, arches, and the meaning behind each detail. 'Translating that into my paintings is a joy like no other,' Salwa says. 'It's where my two passions (architecture and painting) meet, and I get to share the elegance and stories that architecture carries, through my art.' She has worked on bespoke commissions for clients across the globe; she has sold over 100+ paintings worldwide to buyers in countries like Singapore, Norway, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, Italy, Australia, Germany, Canada, USA, France, Netherlands, Belgium and UK. She is a regular participant in exhibitions that celebrate cultural and artistic heritage, like World Art Dubai 2024 and Rang 2025 by Funun Arts, Dubai. She has collaborated with charitable organisations, using her work to contribute to causes 'that bring small yet meaningful change.' This includes a venture with MATW in 2024 to raise funds for Palestine by auctioning art via Instagram and the donation of a painting for a charity event at Hunter College, New York City. 'Knowing that my work can have even a little impact gives me a sense of purpose,' Salwa says. 'Art, to me, is about more than just what's on the canvas. It's about connecting people to faith, beauty, and the idea that even small acts of creativity can bring a little bit of change to the world.' 'How many of us can truly say that we have an opportunity to pursue our passions?' asks Million Fikre, UN officer. 'When we have discovered our passions, they are often self-centered in nature, placing ourselves at the centre of the universe. There are, however, a determined few that make this opportunity — following your passion is a proactive measure! ... Art is nothing if not passion.' Salwa Saleem speaks about her work Why does painting draw you, since you studied architecture? Painting has been my passion since childhood. I've been creating art for as long as I can remember, and it's always been my way of expressing myself. Studying architecture deepened my understanding of design, form, and balance; painting gives me the freedom to convey emotions and stories without constraints. It's where my heart truly lies, and it allows me to connect with people on a deeper, more personal level. What is the quality that makes a subject fit for your canvas? A subject must evoke a strong emotional or cultural connection. I'm drawn to themes that tell a story, whether it's spiritual, architectural, or inspired by nature. It's the potential to create depth, meaning, and beauty that makes it worthy of my canvas. How do you find your inspiration? Inspiration comes from everywhere, travelling to places and admiring vibrant cultures, or reflecting on my spiritual practices. My emotions, the stories people share, and the beauty of everyday life, all serve as Muse. How does a religious text like the Quran be a subject for art? The Quran is a profound source of inspiration, filled with beauty, guidance, and depth. Through calligraphy and abstract forms, I aim to honour its sacredness, while creating art that resonates spiritually with others. What do you find in calligraphy? Calligraphy is both an art and a meditation. It transforms words into visual poetry, merging meaning and form. I find joy in weaving intricate letters with modern designs, celebrating both tradition and creativity. Can you tell us about your work for charity, especially how you assisted Palestine as an artist? My art is a medium to give back. I've contributed paintings to auctions and exhibitions that raise funds for causes like Palestine. It's fulfilling to use my creativity to support people in need and amplify their voices through art. How do you market your work for commissions, for example? I share my journey on platforms like Instagram (@handsofsalwa), where I post videos, tutorials, and completed works. Engaging with followers through stories, updates and responding to messages, also builds trust and relationships with potential clients. How has taking part in exhibitions such as World Art Dubai and Funun Arts helped you as an artist? Exhibitions connect me to a global audience, allowing me to showcase my work and learn from other artists. They've expanded my network, brought commissions, and boosted my confidence as an artist. Do you find it difficult to switch between the Indian and Emirati art worlds? It can be challenging, but is enriching. India's art world is steeped in tradition and diversity, while the Emirati scene embraces innovation and global influences. Switching between the two keeps my work versatile and culturally rooted. How does art connect people? Art transcends language and borders. It evokes shared emotions, tells stories, and sparks conversations. Whether through a painting of a familiar place or the universal beauty of calligraphy, art unites people by reminding them of what they have in common.
