We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Narmin Kassam a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Narmin, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was an immersive installation titled “Reflection”, created for the 2023 National Illume Visual Arts Festival in Toronto, Canada, as a national finalist in the visual arts category. As an African-born woman and former refugee, I deeply connect with each figure in my paintings. The figures represent both beauty and the struggles inherent in their unsung stories of resilience. Their voices are expressed through their thoughts, styles, ethnicities, and shapes.
My creative journey originated from a dream—a vision of suspended figures, mirrors, and light. when I decided to challenge myself by submitting an installation, an experimental art form, rather than a painting which I was comfortable making. It was an opportunity for me to step outside my comfort zone as a mixed-media paper collage artist and engage with a new medium. This decision marked a turning point in my artistic practice, pushing me to explore new dimensions, both literally and figuratively.
Through this project, I saw how closely my artistic practice aligns with my values. Themes of women’s empowerment, care, and diversity resonate deeply with me, and “Reflection” allowed me to explore these values in a multidimensional way. It reinforced my belief that art has the power to inspire change and advocate for important social issues.
“Reflection” was inspired by my Beautiful Voice series (https://www.narminkassamart.com/portfolio), which explores themes of resilience, diversity, and women’s empowerment through layered textures and vibrant colours. The installation expanded on this series, incorporating elements from my previous works, including a painting and short film, to create a multi-sensory experience. This evolution from a single canvas to a layered, immersive space (10ft x 10ft x 10ft) embodied the transformative potential of art to connect deeply with audiences.
The installation features suspended translucent sheers painted with ink and acrylic, representing diverse women and their untold stories. These figures sway delicately, interacting with a circle of mirrors bathed in diffused light. Accompanying narration and an original musical score experienced through headphones and a portable mp3 player heighten the sensory experience, inviting viewers to explore their reflections through the lens of these women. The interplay of movement, light, and sound creates a dynamic environment where each perspective shifts, allowing infinite interpretations.
The conceptual foundation of “Reflection” was rooted in the dream I had, which symbolized the collective responsibility of society to revere and support women in all their roles. The theme of “Care” for the national exhibition, provided a fitting platform to translate this vision into reality. The mirrors in the installation serve as metaphors for introspection, encouraging viewers to consider how their identity and actions support the women in their lives—be they sisters, mothers, partners, or friends.
Venturing into installation art was a leap into the unknown. As someone who primarily works with mixed-media paper collages on wood panels, I had no prior technical experience with installations. This project pushed me to be vulnerable—not just in terms of learning a new medium but also in presenting an intimate exploration of themes close to my heart. I discovered that vulnerability is not a weakness; rather, it’s a powerful tool for connecting with others and expanding my creative horizons.
The technical, conceptual, and logistical complexities of “Reflection” tested me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. From designing suspended figures to integrating light, sound, and mirrors, each challenge forced me to think critically, adapt quickly, and persevere. I realized that stepping out of my comfort zone is not only a way to grow but also a way to discover new facets of my creativity.
The project also underscored how much I value collaboration. Partnering with skilled professionals—narrators, musicians, percussionists, handypersons—not only elevated the work but also showed me the magic that can happen when talents and visions merge. I learned to trust others with my creative vision and embrace their contributions, which enriched the project in unexpected ways.
While creating “Reflection”, I discovered how deeply I value the interaction between my art and its audience. [https://youtu.be/cusUBfFQjG0] Observing how viewers, close to 1,000 in this case, engaged with the installation—moving through the space, contemplating their reflections on how they can care for the women in their lives, and sharing their thoughts in a reflection book I made available —made me realize that my work is as much about sparking conversations as it is about self-expression. This understanding reinforced my desire to create pieces that invite introspection and dialogue.
Translating “Reflection” from a dream into reality taught me that even the most abstract ideas can be realized with determination, imagination, and a willingness to take risks. I learned that having the courage to dream big and pursue those dreams can lead to incredibly fulfilling outcomes.
This project was meaningful as it left me with a deeper understanding of who I am, not just as an artist but as someone who values connection, resilience, and the transformative power of creativity.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am Narmin Kassam, a Canadian visual artist based in Ottawa. My art is a means of personal exploration, self-expression, and storytelling. Each piece is crafted to draw viewers into a profound experience of reflection and contemplation, often centred on themes of humanity, resilience, and women’s empowerment.
How I Started
My journey with art began in childhood, nurtured by a natural passion for visual expression. I was a very shy young woman and, like many, conscious about my body. Visual art became my place of safety, solitude, and a conduit to my true emotions. I felt most inspired – and most at peace – in art galleries. I became inspired by impressionist painters like Monet with vibrant and light-filled paintings, loose brush strokes, and an emphasis on atmosphere over detail. As I developed, I enjoyed incorporating paper into my artwork. I began discovering colours, textures, light, and depth as symbols of my deeper self. Art became a safe space for affective expression, a space of belonging and freedom.
Although initially self-taught, my practice deepened in 2017 through mentorship with Gordon Harrison (https://gordonharrisongallery.com/), a celebrated impressionist Canadian landscape painter. His guidance helped me refine my technique and develop a unique style that blends traditional impressionism with modern mixed-media approaches. Over time, I transitioned to working with decorative and textured paper collages on wood panels, creating vibrant and tactile compositions that evoke wonder and introspection. Gordon encouraged me to build my portfolio, exhibit my work and find opportunities to share my work at both local and national levels. I have been influenced by Gordon’s bold, vibrant, and dynamic use of colour and fluid, with sweeping brush strokes. He taught me to dedicate time to paint consistently, use quality tools – paints, canvases, and brushes, and develop my portfolio of work. He encouraged me to find my unique style and refine my techniques. Although Gordon is primarily an expressive landscape artist, he was very supportive of me focussing on subjects and styles that resonated with me.
I was inspired to be an artist as a way to translate my inner thoughts into tangible artwork. Each piece mirrors my self-discovery journey, forging deep connections with myself and sometimes others. The process bridges my narratives with the outside world. Expressing my emotions on canvas creates space for healing and self-acceptance. As much as I embrace the solitude of my process, I also care deeply about my community – locally and globally. I have engaged communities by leading collaborative art projects in the form of murals, inviting others to explore shared experiences, as well as advising on community-centred arts initiatives. This has enriched my journey, and I hope to empower others to find their voice.
What Inspires My Work
I have always had a visceral connection to paper. My studio is filled with an eclectic collection of textured papers from regions like Japan and India. Japanese decorative paper, in particular, inspires me due to its centuries-old hand-crafted techniques and its unique qualities of vibrancy, strength, and resilience. For me, these characteristics parallel the women and flowers I portray in my work—diverse, strong, and beautifully complex. With their array of colours and textures, the papers ignite my creativity as I run my fingers across them, sparking ideas for figures and forms. This tactile engagement inspires the figures and shapes in my paintings, helping me envision forms and compositions. I emphasize texture and colour interplay when translating inspirations into paintings, especially of human figures. Each painting involves meticulous curation of colours, textures, and light, which I use to accentuate the individuality and essence of each subject. For instance, I design intricate dresses and styles in my paintings based on how light interacts with the patterns and hues of the paper, making every figure distinct and dynamic. Each paper is cut to precision to blend and enhance the painted components of the piece. Each figure owns their unique style.
What I Offer
My work includes original mixed-media paintings, immersive installations, a short film, and wearable art collections. I aim to create pieces that spark dialogue, inspire reflection, and celebrate the beauty of human connection. In addition to my artwork, I have experience telling a community’s story through large-scale mixed-media mural installations while actively engaging community members to contribute meaningfully, As well, I also have experience serving as a Creative Advisor for the curation of cultural exhibitions, including the 50 Years of Ismaili Migration National Travelling Exhibition which was led by award-winning Canadian artist Aquil Virani (http://aquil.ca/).
Through my Wearable Art Boutique (https://www.legaleriste.com/en/narmin.kassam/SUMMER%202023-%20NATURE-S%20TEXTURE), created in partnership with Le Galeriste, a Quebec-based fashion company, I extend my artwork into everyday life. This collection features my art on ethically sourced, eco-friendly clothing and accessories, all handmade in Canada. It’s a way for art lovers to carry a piece of creativity and empowerment with them wherever they go.
What Sets Me Apart
What distinguishes my work is its tactile and layered approach to storytelling. I weave together paint and paper to create dynamic compositions that explore themes of resilience, identity, and empowerment. Each piece is an intricate interplay of texture, light, and emotion, inviting viewers to engage deeply with the stories behind the art. My process also reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, from the materials I use in my artwork to the eco-conscious production of my wearable art.
What I’m Most Proud Of
One of my most meaningful accomplishments is creating the Beautiful Voice series, a multidisciplinary exploration of women’s strength and diversity through paintings, short films, and an immersive installation. This series reflects my belief in the power of art to inspire change and challenge societal norms.
Additionally, I take immense pride in my work’s connections—whether through gallery exhibitions, collaborative community projects, or the wearable art that allows individuals to carry these stories.
What I Want Readers to Know
At its core, my art is about connection—between materials and forms, stories and viewers, and people and their shared humanity. Whether through a painting that captures a moment of resilience, an installation that immerses viewers in reflection, or a wearable piece that turns art into a personal statement, my work is designed to inspire, empower, and connect.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound connection that art fosters—both within myself and with others. Art allows me to explore complex emotions, ideas, and themes, transforming them into visual stories that invite viewers into a shared space of reflection and dialogue. Seeing people interact with my work—whether they’re moved by a painting, find inspiration in an immersive installation, find inspiration and connection to the community by contributing a collaborative mural, or feel empowered wearing a piece from my wearable art collection—is incredibly fulfilling.
Another deeply rewarding aspect is the creative process itself. There’s something magical about the tactile engagement with materials—running my fingers across textured papers, layering vibrant colours, and shaping forms that evolve into meaningful compositions. Each piece is a journey of discovery, where I push my boundaries, challenge myself, and grow as an artist, and as a person.
Finally, being an artist allows me to contribute to causes I’m passionate about, like women’s empowerment and celebrating diversity. Knowing that my work resonates with these themes and sparks conversations about resilience, identity, and social responsibility makes this journey not just rewarding but purposeful. There’s no greater satisfaction than seeing my art inspire positive change, whether through introspection, connection, or advocacy.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My creative journey is deeply rooted in a personal mission to use art as a means of healing, connection, and advocacy. Living with chronic pain. I’ve found art to be a transformative force in my life. It has become not only a source of self-expression but also a tool for resilience and renewal.
Art is my meditation. Integrating paper with the visual burst of paint has become a meditative practice that has allowed me to express, affect, and experience a spiritual connection while staying grounded through life’s endless struggles. When I make art, it clears my mind and helps me momentarily detach from the physical world. It will sometimes open a flow state, creating space for new insights. The process can have a calming effect, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, which also allows me to experiment and take more creative risks. Art has been the key to day-to-day functioning, while living with chronic pain, by allowing me a space to calm my body while focusing on the positivity of creation and inspiration.
Beyond personal healing, my mission is to inspire others to reflect on themes of humanity, diversity, and resilience, particularly through the lens of women’s empowerment. I believe in the power of art to spark conversations, foster understanding, and create a sense of shared purpose. Whether through my Beautiful Voice series or my wearable art, my goal is to offer pieces that resonate emotionally, encouraging viewers and consumers to see themselves and their stories reflected in the work.
Ultimately, my mission is to show that art can be a bridge—connecting us to our inner selves, to one another, and to the greater challenges and beauty of the world we share. Through this journey, I hope to inspire not only healing but also action toward a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.narminkassamart.com
- Instagram: @NARMINKASSAMART
