Faiqa Uppal

Artist Statement

As a British Pakistani, my work is shaped by both cultures and the emotions they stir in me. I am drawn to the movements of Mughal miniature dancers, the soft melodies of the flute, the quiet poetry of flowers, and the grace of Degas' ballet figures. These subjects require different approaches, and I shift between them instinctively, painting whatever resonates with me in the moment.

When I paint female dancers, I feel as though I am dancing on the canvas – something I could never do because of social expectations. My floral paintings, on the other hand, reflect the delicate balance of nature, a quiet reminder of how everything in life is connected.
I work with watercolours and acrylics, allowing for both control and spontaneity. Flowing lines, rich colours, and unfinished forms define my style, capturing the movement and emotion within each subject. The immediacy of the imagery encourages the viewer to engage with the subject and the richness of the painted surface.