We recently connected with Hussain Jamil and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Hussain thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Certainly! Here’s a response based on Hussain Jamil’s profile:

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Yes, I have been able to earn a full-time living from my creative work, though it wasn’t always this way from the start. My journey began with my education at the National College of Arts, Lahore, followed by a Master’s in Art and Design from Beaconhouse National University. Early on, I participated in local and international exhibitions, which helped build my reputation and network.

Securing a residency in Switzerland and exhibiting at venues like Dominion Gallery and Alserkal foundation Dubai were significant milestones. The recognition from awards like the Engro Juried Art Prize and being named “Artist of the Year 2022” by Libas Magazine, People Magazine and FHM also played crucial roles in establishing my career.

The path wasn’t linear, and it took years of dedication and persistence to reach a point where I could sustain myself through my art. Looking back, I believe that having a more focused strategy on building a strong personal brand and expanding my international network earlier could have accelerated the process. However, each experience and challenge has contributed to the artist I am today, and I value the journey as much as the achievements.

Hussain, 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 Hussain Jamil, an art practitioner based in Lahore, specializing in miniature painting and contemporary art. My journey into the art world began with my formal education at the National College of Arts, Lahore, where I majored in miniature painting. This foundational training was further enriched by earning a Master’s in Art and Design (with Honors) from Beaconhouse National University.

My creative practice encompasses a range of works including traditional miniature paintings, public installations, and sculptures. I explore themes of reflection, imperfection, and the passage of time in my art. Central to my work is the concept of ‘reflections’—both literal and metaphorical. I am fascinated by how mirrors distort our perception and how imperfections contribute to the uniqueness and beauty of our experiences. Each piece I create, whether a painting or a public installation, carries a story and embodies this exploration of beauty and imperfection.

I’ve had the privilege of displaying my work in various local and international shows, including a significant residency in Trelex, Geneva. My work was featured in a two-person exhibition at Dominion Gallery, curated by Salima Hashmi, and was honored with the Engro Juried Art Prize at the Karachi Biennale 2022. Additionally, being named “Artist of the Year 2022” by Libas Magazine, People magazine and FHM was a proud moment in my career.

What sets me apart is my commitment to celebrating the beauty in imperfections and the stories they tell. I believe that every flaw and scar adds to the originality and significance of a piece, a sentiment that is reflected in the textured and dented nature of my art. My mirrors, though they may be dented, continue to sparkle and tell their unique stories.

I am most proud of the way my art has resonated with audiences and how it has evolved over the years. For potential clients, followers, and fans, I hope you see my work as a celebration of the imperfect and the ephemeral. My art is not just about visual appeal but about provoking thought and inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions.

In essence, my work aims to offer a new perspective on beauty and self-reflection, celebrating the narrative behind every imperfection and the transformative power of art.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

I view NFTs with a mix of curiosity and caution. The concept of digital ownership and the ability to authenticate unique works online is intriguing and could open new avenues for artists to reach a broader audience and explore innovative forms of expression.

However, I am mindful of the challenges and concerns surrounding NFTs, such as the environmental impact of blockchain technology and the speculative nature of the market. For me, the core of art lies in its ability to provoke thought and resonate emotionally with viewers, regardless of the medium or platform. While NFTs could offer new opportunities, they should be approached thoughtfully, ensuring that they align with one’s artistic values and goals.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

one lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that all elements of my work must be flawless and pristine to be valuable. Initially, I aimed for perfection in every detail, believing it would make my art more appealing and credible.

The backstory to this is rooted in my early days of creating miniature paintings, where precision and perfection were highly emphasized. However, over time, I realized that the beauty of art often lies in its imperfections and the stories behind them. Embracing the dents, cracks, and rusts in my work allowed me to convey deeper, more authentic narratives, reflecting the natural cycle of life and the unique journey of each piece. This shift in perspective helped me appreciate the raw, imperfect beauty that truly resonates with people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hussainjamil.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hussainjamilstudio?igsh=OXdkZjlvcTRzbnNr&utm_source=qr