Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Fatima Khambati. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Fatima, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later

If I could go back in time, I think I would still begin my business at the exact moment I did. My art journey didn’t come from a perfectly planned place—it began in a very real, very personal season of my life. I was a mom with young children, living in the beautiful chaos of everyday family life, when I felt a quiet voice calling me back to creating. Picking up my paintbrush again felt like coming home.

If I had started sooner, I don’t think I would have had the depth, emotion, or even the courage that I have now. My earlier years were about learning who I am, understanding what moves me, and finding meaning in small, delicate details—the softness of a bird’s feathers or the strength in a horse’s posture. Those experiences shaped the heart behind my artwork. Without them, my art wouldn’t tell the same stories.

Starting later would have meant postponing the healing, joy, and purpose that painting brought into my life. This business has given me confidence, connection, and a sense of fulfillment I didn’t even realize I was missing.

So no, I wouldn’t change the timing. I started when my soul was finally ready. Sometimes the right time isn’t early or late—it’s the moment you step into who you truly are.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Fatima, and I’m a watercolor wildlife and nature artist. Creativity has always been a natural part of who I am. Growing up, I was constantly making things with my hands—stitching tiny doll clothes, creating handmade accessories, and sketching animals any chance I got. One of my earliest memories is when my 6th-grade bird artwork was turned into greeting cards by my teacher. That small moment stayed with me; it showed me that art has the power to connect with people.

Years later, I found myself returning to the same school as an art teacher. Teaching strengthened my belief that creativity can build confidence and joy. But it was during motherhood that I truly rediscovered painting. What started as a quiet, personal escape slowly grew into a full art practice as people connected with my watercolor birds, horses, and florals.

Today, I create original paintings, fine art prints, commissions, and beginner-friendly tutorials. My work centers on the gentle details of nature—the softness of a bird, the strength of a horse, the calmness of florals. I strive to paint emotion, not just form, and I believe that’s what sets my work apart. Collectors often tell me my art brings them a sense of peace and comfort, and for me, that is the highest compliment.

What I’m most proud of is that my business grew organically from something deeply personal. I didn’t start with a perfect plan—I started with passion, intention, and a desire to create beauty. I want people to know that my brand is built on honesty and heart. Every piece I make carries a story, a feeling, and a little bit of the journey that brought me here.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

My social media audience grew slowly and naturally. In the beginning, I only posted finished pieces—no behind-the-scenes, no process, just the final artwork. Even then, people connected with the subjects I painted, especially birds and horses. Over time, I realized that people wanted to know more than what the artwork looked like—they wanted to know the story behind it.

So I gradually started sharing small glimpses of my process: a brushstroke here, a color palette there, and eventually short videos and reels. I didn’t follow a strict strategy—I simply shared what felt genuine, what inspired me, and what I hoped would inspire others. As I stayed consistent, my audience began to grow. People connected not only with the art, but with the emotion, softness, and calmness it brought into their feeds.

My biggest advice to anyone starting out is: don’t wait to be perfect—start with what you have. Share the kind of content you would enjoy watching. Stay consistent, even if your audience is small at first. And most importantly, be yourself. People connect with sincerity, not perfection. When your passion is real, your audience will grow with you.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My social media audience grew in a very organic and heartfelt way. In the beginning, I only shared finished paintings—little glimpses of birds, horses, and nature that felt meaningful to me. Even then, people connected with the calmness and emotion in the work. Over time, I realized that my followers wanted to see the story behind each painting, not just the final result. So I gradually began sharing more of my process—the colors I mix, the textures I build, and the gentle details that bring each subject to life.

A big part of my growth also came from the support of people and organizations who believed in my work. One of the most meaningful connections has been with @The_RadiantArts a global art platform and community that uplifts and empowers artists from around the world. Their recognition and encouragement became an important milestone in my journey, helping my work reach new audiences and giving me the confidence to grow further.

Beyond the online world, participating in @1stsatartmarket every first Saturday of the month has played a significant role in my growth. Meeting people face-to-face, sharing the stories behind my paintings, and seeing their responses in real time created real, lasting connections. Many of those in-person interactions grew into long-term supporters who continue to follow my journey online.

For anyone starting out, my advice is simple: be sincere. Share your work even if it’s not “perfect,” speak from your heart, and stay consistent. Let people see your unique way of creating—not just the polished piece, but the steps, the experiments, and the intention behind it. When you show up as yourself, the right audience will naturally find you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatimas_art_studio?igsh=dHNueXlna3I0eDBo&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://fatimasartstudioshop.etsy.com/

Image Credits

Fatima khambati