An interview with Uma Aslam from Northwich, Cheshire.
Here she talks to Artists Info about her work.
Please describe your artwork style
I describe my style as contemporary abstract.
What’s your background?
Born and raised in Manchester to South Asian Parents
How long have you been an artist?
I have been an artist for almost 20 years.
Who or what are your biggest influences?
My biggest influences are my personal life and spiritual experiences. I also admire Picasso for he was very unique in his style and use of color.
How have you developed your career?
I was fortunate to open a gallery /studio space in the North of Spain in 2005. This in turn gave me a lot of valuable lessons as well as bringing me the confidence I needed to continue with the work I was already doing.
Which current art world trends are you following?
At present, I like a lot of street art and I am gradually developing a taste for some more recent Pop Art. It's a lot about color for me.
Where do you create your work?
I create my work from home. Luckily I have more space now as I have recently moved home.
What do you feel is the role of the artist in society?
I think art has a very important role in society as it can be very influential in many ways. We can speak many languages through it and can convey numerous messages, whether it be used for political propaganda or activism purposes.or for the mere soul purpose of enjoyment and beauty.
What techniques / mediums do you use?
I use oil and sometimes acrylics but mainly as a base to start with.
Which is more important to you, the subject of your painting, or the way it is executed?
Both are equally as important to me because for me one would not work without the other.
How do you feel when you are letting your emotions loose on the canvas?
I always feel excited when beginning a new piece because I never really know what the end result is going to be but always trust the process.
What project are you working on now?
At present, I am working on a series called 'My Cosmic Love Vibe'. This work is about the energy of love, its colors and vibrational effects on us and our environment, it also relates to my experiences with Angelic realms and more.
Any current or up-coming exhibitions?
I have just recently had a solo exhibition in January 2019 in the historical city of Padova Italy just outside of Venice. My next exhibition is a local one, based at the Town Hall in Macclesfield from 22nd to the 24th of March 2019.
Where do you find your ideas for your work?
My ideas come mainly from instinct and what I receive in meditations, visions etc.
Is there an artwork you are most proud of? Why?
Yes. a piece called the 'The Triangle' as it was a very challenging time for me especially with my health. It took me a long time to execute this piece and belongs to my series 'For The Love of Geometry'and also very spiritually significant. Also a winner of various awards.
How do you know when a work is finished?
I just know when my piece is finished.
What is your most important artist tool? Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
.I use linseed oil I think when using oils its vital to have a bottle in stock.
Is there an element of art you enjoy working with most? Why?
I enjoy working and experimenting with colors because it's what my artwork is based around.
