Afshan Nawaz Khan’s appealing portrait of Mahatma Gandhi embodies his values

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

Afshan Nawaz Khan, 15, is a young artist based in the Emirates. Pursuing higher school studies at Our Own English High School, Sharjah, she is a self-taught art maker, known for her detailed paintings. “Through my diverse body of artworks,” she says, “which includes paintings and sustainable art, I seek to initiate dialogue, provoke thought, evoke emotion, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us to create a positive social impact on society. I’ve won multiple awards, exhibited internationally and met the Ruler of Sharjah. I’ve participated in more than 25 art exhibitions, won nine Inter-school art competitions, including UNICEF-MENA Blue Dot at COP-28, and am holding the position of General Secretary, India Department, in UNESCO International Action Art.” She is currently showing her portrait of Mahatma Gandhi at Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC, August 10 – 17), which celebrates India’s Independence Day, falling on August 15. Afshan Nawaz Khan speaks about her artwork to Gulf Today 

Why did you choose Gandhi to portray freedom?

The man behind Indian Independence was Mahatma Gandhi, who is the Father of the Nation. I wanted to pay a tribute to him for leading India’s freedom struggle. Gandhi adopted the principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and truth. I was inspired to paint him, since he non-violently led such a great campaign against the British, in order to liberate India.

Did you use any new elements in Gandhi’s portrait?

Yes, I did use new elements in Gandhi’s portrait. I sculpted his hand using clay; it holds a real, wooden stick. I also used a piece of cloth called Khadi in my work. Khadi or the coarse, hand spun cloth that Gandhi wore, reflected his simplicity and humility. Its use was encouraged by him to boycott British goods.

 Afshan Nawaz Khan at work.

How did you research the portrait?

I always use many websites for accurate information and visuals. I also refer to various books, including my school books. I have chapters related to Gandhi and his contributions in my CBSE History textbook. They helped me simplify and visualise what I wanted in my painting. This time, I had to do very deep research, in order to sculpt the hand. It took five long days of constant, hard work. I believe research is an integral part of art making that must be done before starting any project. Although it may be time consuming, it always gives fruitful results.

Why did you do the picture in black and white?

I wanted my painting to be striking to the eye - which is the reason why I used black and white paint. I think it is a significant aspect of my painting, and I included it in order to draw the attention of viewers. I also wanted to rouse a feeling of nostalgia that reminded people of olden times. Colour photography was not used much in Gandhi’s time; which is why I tried to capture this look. Paintings in black and white themes are considered classic, timeless and highly versatile narratives that tell compelling stories. This painting in black and white is stimulating and simple and easy for the audience to interpret.

Why is Gandhi’s walking stick in a raised than lowered position?

I placed Gandhi’s lathi or walking stick in a raised position, to reflect his bravery. This stick played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle. It helped Gandhi walk long distances, throughout the country. It is set in an elevated position because I wanted to showcase how Gandhi, even though very lean and thin in appearance, was extremely strong and steady. His stick is not merely a piece of bamboo wood, but a symbol of strength and power.

There are many portraits of Gandhi. What makes your portrait different?

The special elements included in my painting that make it distinct from others, is his sculpted hand holding a real wooden stick and the Khadi wrapped around him. They give a touch of realism.

What are the qualities a good portrait should have?

A good portrait must always have style of its own and features that make it easy to immediately identify it. A viewer should be able to interpret the personality shown at once. Expressions should be captured accurately, as they tell a lot about the mood of the person in the portrait. The picture should be able to speak about the person’s character and should give context of his background. In my case, I added features that convey Gandhi’s simplicity as well as strength.

If Gandhi had seen his portrait, what would he have said?

I think he would have been happy to see his portrait! I assume he would have been even gladder to know that it was painted by a 15 year old girl! He would have appreciated my work and efforts and shared his noble thoughts with me. This would definitely have been a great honour for me. I also think he would have encouraged me to use my talent for promoting peace and happiness in the world.

What should the takeaways be from your portrait of Gandhi?

My painting is a reminder to the world to remember this great personality’s sacrifices, beliefs and contributions to humanity. It is a message, particularly for youth, to remember this apostle of peace who changed the world with two invaluable weapons, namely, non-violence and truth. These moral principles are highly required in today’s world.