A dental student turned Instagram sensation, Sara Shakeel adds a little - and sometimes a lot - of sparkle to our daily social feeds. The Pakistani artist lets us in on what drives her creativity as well as the best things to see and do in her hometown.
17 June, 2019
Sara Shakeel's surrealist works have a universal appeal, as her masses of followers (in surplus of 750k) will attest. Inspired by artists ranging from Pablo Picasso to Hannah Höch, Shakeel has a style that is distinctive and chintzy.
In essence, Shakeel is a fantasist who dabbles in Dadaism. Here we explore her dreamscape, discuss why she considers Innsbruck to be a leader in the field of visual art and why young Pakistanis should indulge in their imaginations.
I am born and raised in Pakistan. Coming from a country that is still struggling and young compared to many nations out there has truly taught me to dream. Things are not perfect here, not at all, which gives me more reason to fix it with my imagination.
It represents the very essence of who I am and how I see the world. It's therapeutic on so many levels.
I like crystal-ing places I visit or really want to visit.
Hannah Höch and Pablo Picasso.
5,000 per cent yes.
Yes, in a way. I always tell people that I owe my success to Instagram. It gave me the platform I needed and connected me with those that share similar ideas.
I've been honest with my work, maybe that shows through my art?
From the mountains to the seas, every location reminds me of the wonders God created. I can't put my finger on just one.
Somewhere in Asia or America.
The Hunza Valley or Chitral.
Chapli kabab and lassi.
I am in the process of creating my own studio.
Everything you need is on YouTube.
Clear your sinuses before you fly.
Lots of clothes that I never wore.
The Great Supper by Sara Shakeel is on display at the NOW Gallery until 23 June 2019.
