Web Story Desk
Srinagar: Young artists in Jammu and Kashmir have taken on the challenging task of reviving the ancient art of calligraphy using modern methods.
The art of calligraphy is currently thriving, and the younger generation is becoming more interested in it. This has given the art a new lease on life in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Web Story brings a series of such artists from Kashmir who are not only following their passion but also taking this art form to the next level with a new lease on life.
Here is a list of artists for whom art is not only therapeutic but also a source of income.
Islamic calligrapher Baseerat Shafi Khawaja
Islamic calligrapher Baseerat Shafi Khawaja, a 23-year-old medical student from the Handwara town of Kralgund, utilised Instagram as a tool to make her goal come true.
Talking to The Web Story, Baseerat who is doing her Bachelors of science in Botany said, “Since I was young, I have had an interest in art, and every time I see a painting or other piece of design, I find myself wondering how happy the creator must have felt to create such a flawless and full work of art.”
She said during the period of COVID lockdown she decided to take up the art and started posting her calligraphy work on Instagram.
“That was the turning moment for me to continue my passion and since then I haven’t looked back since when people started to admire my calligraphy and I started getting orders,” she continued.
“I thank the social media site (Instagram) for which my dream came true,” she added.
The self-taught Handwara calligrapher claimed that she did not receive any professional training in this art.
She added that although it was difficult to survive in the beginning, once you follow their passion and set out to do something and work hard, then it definitely pays off.
Nayera Hassan Sketch artist, calligrapher, painter
From beautiful envelopes to grand signboards, calligraphy can add a touch of elegance to everything in this world. Nayera Hassan, 25, is doing exactly that.
A sketch artist, calligrapher, painter, and software developer, Nayera Hassan an engineering graduate who hails from north Kashmir’s Sopore town is being praised for her artwork all across the UT of J&K and is getting orders on her Instagram page ‘praising_brushes’.
The calligrapher in a chat with this The Web Story said that since her childhood she used to participate in drawing competitions, especially at the school level.
“I put my luck forward as I belonged to a place where we were supposed to be behind the face of facts. I utilised my energy and my work directly into my hands in the form of art,” she added.
Artists have been known for centuries to “struggle” when it comes to earning recognition and income. “Art chose me, I guess, and we held each other dearer and both of us kept growing in tone and tenor. For me, the struggle was there but to divide time between my passion and pursuing education,” Nayera added.
Right now Nayera Hassan is proving that there are ways to earn from your art if you are willing to try new things and get creative with regard to the way you add value. Since it is my passion, and my hobby, I’m just doing it for fun and to supplement my income.
“I was doing justice to the work and I had been doing since then. The response from clients made me happy and my parents too.” Nayera takes orders from customers through her social media accounts which are her main source of marketing.
“I keep sharing the posts and the videos, as the videos take a little while to hold on to, but as work has to rub on. As a result, putting it through the rigorous role and if you can change a customer’s mind while giving them your best, they will choose you; let them choose you. That’s marketing,” she further added.
In her message, she said one should never lead him/herself down. “If you are good at it and you are even earning, you should never stop doing it. Hold on, get going, and lubricate the roads. I believe you will succeed,” Nayera said.
Zainab Farooq
Art for Zainab is just relaxing and therapeutic.
Zainab Farooq, daughter of Farooq Ahmad, a resident of Khanyar Srinagar pursuing honours in agriculture as a profession.
Since her childhood, Zainab has been in colour every time.
“I used to take part in competitions and, by the grace of the Almighty, emerged as the winner. That thing motivated me to thrive in art. Besides, it gives me satisfaction, “she told The Web Story.
” I am finding peace to be with colours and I am blooming by doing what I appreciate, following my inner peace,” she added.
Zainab has faced so many difficulties while pursuing his passion. Zainab says that difficulty is everywhere in your life, but how you combat it makes sense.
“Difficulties can be huge or not at all. It can be time management, financial issues, the market, growth or anything, but how you face those without stressing yourself is important, “Zainab further added.
She is utilising social media sites to sell her calligraphies, paintings, and artwork. Her Instagram handle is @zainabfarooq621.
“A lot of people like my work and order the same. Customized ones are most liked by people besides Arabic calligraphy,” she said.
Zainab said that her parents have always been supportive in every aspect of her life, be it studies or artwork, and for that, she is highly grateful.
Aabida Rashid self-taught Islamic calligrapher
Aabida Rashid is a self-taught Islamic calligrapher and medical student from Zainakote, HMT area of central Kashmir’s district, Srinagar Jammu & Kashmir.
Aabida has always been drawn to Islamic calligraphy. She began her journey as a calligrapher during the pandemic, using the extra time to improve her skills and turn her passion into a lifelong pursuit.
Aabida has always excelled in her art, winning numerous local competitions during her school days. She is now working hard to become proficient in Islamic calligraphy, which she sees as more than just a hobby. She finds peace and calm in the practice and believes it is an effective way to communicate and pass on messages in a beautiful way.
