We were lucky to catch up with Fatima Khan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Fatima, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

From a young age, it was evident that I possessed a natural aptitude for drawing and capturing the essence of expressions. One of my earliest and fondest memories is sketching my father as he sat reading the newspaper, his reading glasses perched delicately on the bridge of his nose. That moment remains vivid in my mind, often reminisced with a sense of nostalgia, even though the sketch itself has been misplaced over time.
Throughout my school years in Pakistan, my talent for art became a hallmark among my peers. I frequently helped friends with their drawing-related homework, completing their assignments with speed and precision. My abilities were often praised, yet at the time, I didn’t think much of it—it felt like just another skill, something many of us might take for granted without realizing its potential.
Looking back, I owe much of my creative inclinations to my family, where many members shared a love for art and creativity. This environment nurtured my early interests, though it wasn’t until later that I began to see art as more than just a pastime.
My formal journey as an artist began when I enrolled in an art school in Pakistan. This was a transformative period, as I had the privilege of learning from exceptional teachers, many of whom were associated with renowned universities. Their guidance not only honed my technical skills but also opened my eyes to new possibilities and encouraged me to push boundaries. It was during this time that I discovered my niche—portraits, and anatomy—which allowed me to excel in Fine Arts and develop a distinct identity as an artist.
Even after venturing into other fields within the corporate world, my passion for art remained unwavering. I continued to collaborate with senior fine artists and devoted my leisure time to practicing and refining my craft. Art, for me, was never something I could set aside; it was an integral part of who I was. This journey has been one of continuous learning, growth, and a deepening love for the creative process.

Fatima, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am Fatima Khan, an Oslo-based artist originally from Pakistan, with a lifelong passion for art that began in my early childhood. My journey started with simple yet profound moments, like sketching my father with his reading glasses while he read the newspaper—a memory that remains etched in my heart. My talent, recognized early on, led me to graduate in Pakistan, where I refined my skills under the mentorship of esteemed educators. Over the years, I’ve embraced art as not just a skill but a way of expressing human emotions, experiences, and culture.
My body of work is diverse but rooted in a deep appreciation for form, expression, and storytelling. I have a particular affinity for portraits and anatomy, where I aim to capture the essence and complexity of human emotion. My work often bridges cultural and personal narratives, reflecting both my heritage and my global experiences as an artist.
My inspiration comes from a combination of personal memories, cultural heritage, and the universal human experience. Growing up in a creative family instilled a sense of appreciation for art as a form of communication and storytelling. My artistic journey has been shaped by Pakistani traditions, global perspectives, and the resilience of everyday people. I’m inspired by the interplay of form and emotion, and how art can evoke empathy and understanding.
At the heart of my practice is the desire to create dialogue and foster cultural exchange. My mission is to present my heritage in a positive and inspiring light, promoting diversity and inclusion through my work. Whether it’s through capturing the intricacies of human anatomy, exploring cultural motifs, or collaborating with other artists, I aim to celebrate the universal human spirit that transcends borders.
Art, for me, is more than a craft—it’s a journey of self-discovery, a tool for connection, and a medium for sharing stories that matter. My focus remains on pushing creative boundaries while staying true to the essence of what inspired me to pick up a pencil in the first place: the beauty of capturing life in its purest form.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist lies in the ability to use my creativity as a force for good. Art has an unparalleled power to inspire, heal, and connect people, and channeling that power into philanthropy has been one of the most fulfilling dimensions of my journey.

Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to nonprofit organizations that support causes close to my heart. These include initiatives focused on refugees, women and children affected by war and violence, and organizations that care for children with special needs. Offering my art to these causes is not merely about creating pieces; it’s about giving voice to stories of resilience, hope, and humanity. One of the most meaningful aspects of my journey as an artist has also been the opportunity to provide art therapy workshops for displaced refugees from Ukraine. These workshops go beyond creating art, offering a safe space for expression, healing, and connection for individuals who have experienced immense loss and upheaval.
Each collaboration has been a profound experience. Whether it’s raising funds through auctions, creating pieces that symbolize strength and recovery, or simply offering a sense of beauty and comfort to those in need, these contributions remind me of the transformative power of art. Art has a unique ability to transcend language and cultural barriers, making it an ideal medium for helping people process emotions and reclaim a sense of identity. During these workshops, I witnessed the resilience of the human spirit as participants used colors, shapes, and imagery to tell their stories and find moments of solace amidst the chaos.
These experiences have deepened my belief in the transformative power of art. They remind me of art’s capacity not only to create beauty but also to offer comfort and hope in even the darkest times. What makes this journey even more meaningful is the connection it creates—with the people my art supports, the organizations that tirelessly work to improve lives, and the wider community that comes together to help. These moments affirm that creativity can extend far beyond personal expression; it can serve as a bridge to kindness, understanding, and change.

Being able to contribute to these causes as an artist is a privilege that continuously reinforces the purpose and responsibility of my craft. It reminds me that art is not only about creating something beautiful—it’s also about using beauty to make a difference.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, a significant goal driving my creative journey is the desire to use art as a force for good—to give back to society and create meaningful impact. While my art allows me to express my individuality and heritage, its true power lies in the ability to inspire change, provide solace, and foster connection.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is knowing that my work can extend beyond collectors, and exhibitions to touch lives in profound ways. Giving back through art doesn’t just benefit others—it continuously enriches my perspective. It reminds me that art transcends boundaries, speaks universal languages, and carries the potential to make a lasting impact. Ultimately, my mission is to ensure that my creative journey uplifts and empowers others, leaving a legacy of compassion, understanding, and unity.

Standing tall as a Pakistani artist, I feel a profound responsibility to represent my country and culture with authenticity and pride on international platforms. Each opportunity to share my work is also a chance to challenge stereotypes and reshape perceptions about Pakistan and its people. Through my art, I aim to weave a narrative that highlights the richness, resilience, and beauty of my heritage, countering the often misconstrued or oversimplified identities portrayed in global contexts. Whether through exhibitions, collaborations, or workshops, I strive to raise the bar, ensuring that Pakistan’s cultural essence is celebrated and understood in a positive light. This journey isn’t just personal; it’s about contributing to a broader dialogue of inclusivity, diversity, and understanding, using creativity as the bridge. It fills me with pride to know that my work serves as a testament to the strength and vibrancy of my roots, helping to elevate the global narrative of our collective identity.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runggartgallery/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FatimaKhanShamsi.online/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatimakshamsi/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@phatemahkhan