Today we’d like to introduce you to Saba Farhoudnia

Hi Saba, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

Since I was a child, the best way for me to communicate was by creating images. I started talking a little later than usual, because of that, drawing was a safe zone for me. When I was young, I always wanted a pen to be able to draw until I fell asleep, often finding marks on my pillowcase. At that age, I didn’t know that sort of pareidolia was helping me to be creative, which made me feel compelled to draw what was in my mind.

As I got older, I became even more certain that I wanted to be a painter and an artist. I took extracurricular courses like calligraphy when I was 9 years old, and decided to attend an art high school later. From there, I pursued my passion for painting and continued my studies in this field, deciding to remain a painter.

Little by little, my painting transformed into my wings, helping me grow as a human, in my career and life, leading me to immigrate from my home country, Iran to USA.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

The journey was not smooth—perhaps the only major smooth part was that I came from a family that love art and they supported my interests. However, there were many challenges, especially when I immigrated. It wasn’t easy, and still isn’t, being a woman painter from the Middle East, both in my own country and abroad. Being an immigrant, in general, adds another significant challenge, akin to carrying a mountain along with all the other burdens.

This career demands a lot from both body and spirit. There are times when I have to stretch canvas, build stretchers, and carry large paintings like all other painters. Sometimes, when I finish my studio time, I can hardly feel my body. Finding adequate storage space for my work has also been a persistent issue in New York City. Additionally, maintaining hope and consistency in a career that isn’t focused on income but rather on passion and expression can be daunting.

As a New York-based artist, being a full-time artist is not easy. Balancing a teaching job, gym time, studio time, attending others’ openings, visiting museums, reading, writing, and other activities is challenging for an artist who just wants to create. However, this is what I chose, and I am happy, patient, and committed to my path.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I am a painter, and because I love kids, I also chose to be a part-time art teacher. To me, children are the best and most creative artists in the world. I’m not sure what I specialize in or am known for—it’s hard to answer these questions about yourself—but my specialty is not giving up easily, something that has been a part of me since childhood. When I was seven years old, I wrote that down and stuck the note on my wall. This determination also inspires my paintings, as I like to bring stories related to today’s world into my work and not give up on the battlefield we are living in or stay silent about what is happening. My friends know me as a kind and funny painter with diverse abilities.

I am most proud of all the artists who have remained in this career after the pandemic. I am proud of my family, who have always supported me on this hard journey. I am also proud of myself because, despite having many reasons to give up on this career, I have remained consistent and dedicated and loyal to my intrest.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?

Well, I am an ambitious person. The fact that I chose to be an artist, immigrate, and put everything in a luggage to say goodbye to everyone in my hometown 12 years ago can attest to that. I believe risk-taking should be a part of your journey and life. There should be moments when your fears don’t stop your interests and your love for someone or something. However, you need to take risks only if you are brave enough to face the possibility of failure.

Throughout the journey, you need to be honest with yourself about your interests, emotions, and logic, and you must be responsible for your own decisions. Risk-taking involves a balance of courage and self-awareness, knowing that each decision carries potential consequences. It’s about understanding that failure is a part of growth and that every risk you take brings you closer to your true self and your aspirations.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sabafarhoudnia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabafarhoudnia/