Stepping out from the shadow of her father, the acclaimed artist Fawad Tamkanat, was no easy feat for Afza Tamkanat. With the weight of expectations to uphold his legendary legacy, she faced considerable pressure. However, with encouragement from Fawad and her family, Afza forged her own unique path,transforming everyday emotions into powerful works of art. Over the years, both her art and her personal journey have evolved. Now based in Australia, a country that continues to inspire her creativity, Afza took some time out for an exclusive conversation with Vibe.

Excerpts:

Your art seems to engage with a wide array of socio-political issues. What motivates you to address these themes, and how do you hope to spark change through your work?

My artistic journey began with a strong foundation in social, political and cultural activism, thanks to my grandfather and my father’s influence. Their teachings emphasized the need to raise our voices against injustice, and this principle has guided my creative expression. My early work explores themes
of social injustice, with a particular focus on promoting the rights and empowerment of girls and women. Through my art, I aim to reflect my values and personality. I believe that by being honest and consistent, we can create a ripple effect that inspires change in our surroundings. When individuals are
mindful of their actions, they’re less likely to cross boundaries. My artistic practice, which includes installations, photography, and paintings, is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting positive transformation.

Growing up as the daughter of renowned artist Fawad Tamkanat, how did his influence shape your journey as an artist?

As the daughter of a renowned artist, I’ve often felt the weight of expectation from those around me. Teachers and friends sometimes seem to anticipate a certain level of talent or achievement, which can be overwhelming. Yet, my relationship with my father has been a constant source of comfort and inspiration. Our open and honest discussions about art have taught me the importance of staying true to myself. His
mantra – follow your heart and take risks in life and art – has been invaluable. His dedication and constant learning from everyday life have influenced me as an artist. Of course, our style, language and content of work are very different and we agree and disagree with each other’s opinions, which is very
healthy. My work is a reflection of my personality. As a sensitive and attentive observer, through my art, I aim to convey the complexities and emotions that make us human.

You picked up crayons and sketched on the walls as a child. Can you recall a specific moment from your childhood when you realized that art was going to be a lifelong passion for you?

I was fortunate to have access to my father’s professional art materials, which allowed me to explore my creativity and develop my skills from a tender age. While I can’t pinpoint a single defining moment, a humorous conversation with my mother comes to mind. I once argued, ‘If my father can sleep in late and live life as he pleases, why must I wake up at 6 am for school? I aspire to be an artist like him, with the freedom to create without rigid’.

Are there any particular artists, movements, or cultural influences outside of your father’s work that have had a significant impact on your style or artistic philosophy?

I am deeply engaged with the mainstream contemporary art world, where innovation and experimentation thrive. I’m drawn to the avant-garde works showcased at art fairs, which inspire me to push boundaries in my own practice. Now based in Australia, my work is taking on a new dimension as I explore the pressing issues of climate change while also seeking to capture the essence of the natural world.

What role do you believe art plays in addressing societal challenges, and how do you balance your personal voice with the larger socio-political message you aim to convey?

The current climate in India can be daunting for artists who want to express themselves honestly, especially when tackling sensitive social or political issues. Unfortunately, this can lead to self-censorship and stifle creativity. Nevertheless, I believe that artists have a responsibility to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. By doing so, we can create awareness, foster critical thinking, and ultimately drive change – a bond that’s inevitable when art and activism come together.

Can you share an example of a recent project where you felt you truly pushed the boundaries of your creativity?

Living in Australia for the past seven years, its unique environment has had a profound impact on my artistic style. The country’s diverse flora and fauna have inspired a new series of works, with trees, flowers, and birds becoming recurring themes. The solitude and quiet contemplation of walking through the wilderness have allowed me to tap into my inner world, exploring themes of identity, emotion, and connection to the natural world. The organic shapes, forms, and patterns found in nature have influenced my composition and brushwork, encouraging me to move beyond traditional representation and explore the abstract.

How has your approach to art evolved over the years, and how do you see your artistic journey progressing in the next 5-10 years?

In the early years, art for me was driven by curiosity and experimentation. Having explored various mediums and techniques, a sense of freedom was what I enjoyed most. Now, the approach has become more introspective and personal, reflecting on growth as an artist, a mother, and an individual. I have discovered new ways to balance creativity with caregiving, finding innovative ways to incorporate my children into my artistic process, and using art as a means of self-care and expression.