MUNTHE ART MONDAY HIBA SCHAHBAZ
Please introduce yourself and tell us about what you do.
My name is Hiba Schahbaz and I’m a Pakistani born artist who lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. My early training was as an Indo-Persian miniature painter and over the last few years my paintings have expanded into mural size works on paper and canvas. These include large installations of paper cutouts painted with tea and watercolor and large scale oil paintings. My paintings often depict women, animals and magical creatures such as dragons and mermaids. I love bringing together the known and unknown and creating magical worlds.
Hiba is wearing Fridoline blouse and Fiamma skirt.
Can you explain more about how being a woman has affected your career?
When I was a young girl I would hide notepaper in my school books and draw women on the lined pages. As far back as I can remember, from drawing stick figures in skirts to self portraits in front of a mirror, the inspiration for my paintings has been rooted in the feminine. I feel very connected to women and I create beautiful, dreamlike environments in my paintings for them and inspired by them.
Hiba is wearing Fiamma skirt.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a woman in the arts?
Being a woman artist is a gift and has made me who I am today. Growing up in a traditional environment and painting the female body came with its challenges. It was these challenges that motivated me to be a better artist, to be resilient and move towards what I love. Adversity taught me to believe in myself. In Brooklyn I’ve created a space where I’m able to be completely immersed in my art and I’m deeply grateful for the journey that has brought me here.
Can you name some other female (artist) that inspires you and explain why they do so?
I love Frida Kahlo’s paintings. I’m mesmerized by the strength and beauty in her work. Her unapologetic portrayal of herself, her life story, her emotions in deeply inspiring. I also love the work of Wangechi Mutu. She is a visionary and her artwork bridges the past, present and future. She creates magic across mediums.
Hiba is wearing Fridoline blouse and Fiamma skirt.
What would you like people to notice in your artwork?
I want my paintings to connect with people at an emotional and intuitive level. I am conscientious about my energy and how it translates into images and aware that these paintings become a part of peoples homes and lives. I often have blessing hidden within paintings, with the intention of bringing grace into the lives of others.
Hiba is wearing Fiamma skirt.
Hiba is wearing Fridoline blouse and Fiamma skirt.
