Brush of art, blush of soul: Subia Khan Hussain’s mystic canvases

Subia Khan Hussain is a self-taught artist from India. “Islamic mysticism and realism are my forte,” she says. She works to bridge Islamic mysticism and realism, striving to present spirituality through tangible manifestation. Islamic calligraphy, with its emphasis on purification, love, and the quest for unity with the Divine, serves as a conceptual and emotional foundation for her paintings. Her approach to realism is not just about depicting the form of a subject: through realism, she would like to capture the spiritual truths that lie beneath the surface. She is also focused on Sufism.

“Each brushstroke,” Subia says, “is a meditation, each colour a reflection of the divine light that Sufism speaks of. By combining the vivid detail of realism with the abstracted, symbolic elements of Sufi thought, I aim to create artworks that resonate at both sensory and spiritual levels.” Through the interplay of light and shadow, form and formlessness, her paintings invite viewers to embark on their own contemplative journeys. The pieces are designed to evoke a sense of the transcendent within the familiar, encouraging a deeper engagement with both the external world and the inner self. “Ultimately, my work is a dialogue between the seen and the unseen, the material and the spiritual,” Subia says. “It is an exploration of how the divine manifests within the fabric of everyday life, and a reminder of the sacred dimensions that reside in all things.” Subia speaks to Gulf Today.

Why does spirituality attract you?

For me, spirituality is deeply attractive because it offers a sense of purpose, a connection to the Almighty, helping achieve inner peace. Spirituality can provide comfort during difficult times, guide personal growth, and help cultivate a sense of belonging or understanding, which helps one face life’s uncertainties.

Landscape during sunset.

Isn’t it difficult to show spirituality through art?

Yes, it can be challenging to show spirituality through art because spirituality is inherently abstract and personal and intangible in nature. The experience of the divine, inner peace, or transcendence often doesn’t lend itself to a concrete form or visible representation; this makes it difficult to capture it in a visual or auditory medium. However, artists have found ways to communicate spirituality, often relying on symbols, abstraction or motion. For example, in Sufism, the idea of seeking union with the divine is expressed through the circular movement of whirling. The flowing forms in calligraphy and the complex interwoven geometry of art, symbolise infinity, unity, and the inner journey.

How does colour help you in showing spirituality?

Colour helps me in expressing spirituality by conveying profound emotions. For example, white may represent purity; gold embodies divinity; blue suggests peace. Colours also create moods, with soft tones promoting calmness and vibrant ones expressing energy. The contrast between light and dark can indicate spiritual journeys, and golden halos around figures can show their divine nature and enlightenment. Overall, colour enhances the spiritual message and atmosphere of art.

Calligraphy composition in gold, blue and black.

How does Sufism lend itself to art?

Sufism lends itself to art by emphasising the nature of inner experience, and the pursuit of divine love. It can be beautifully expressed through various artistic forms such as visual artworks, poetry and music. Although Islam generally avoids depicting human figures in religious art to prevent idol worship, Sufi influence can still be seen in intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy, which signifies the infinite nature of the Almighty.

Why does the realistic style attract you?

I’m drawn to realistic artwork because it brings the world around me to life in a very detailed and authentic way. It allows me to appreciate the beauty of everyday moments, whether it’s the play of light on a surface or the intricate elements of nature. Realistic art has a way of making the subject feel tangible and familiar, almost as if I could reach out and touch it. The skill and technique required to capture reality in such a precise way also impacts me, as it reflects both the artist’s mastery and their dedication to portraying the world as it truly is.

Subia Khan Hussain is based in the UAE.

Who are the artists who you look up to? Why?

I look up to Hasan Çelebi and Diaa Allam since they blend traditional calligraphy and modern expression. Çelebi masterfully combines classical Turkish calligraphy with spiritual depth, while Diaa merges Eastern and Western inspirations, creating contemporary works that are deeply rooted in tradition.

What is the link between calligraphy and divinity?

Calligraphy is linked to divinity because it’s seen as a way to connect with the divine. In Islam, writing sacred texts is a form of complimenting, and the beauty of the script reflects the order of the divine. Calligraphy often depicts the Almighty’s names or holy verses, turning writing into a sacred art.

What is the role of chiaroscuro in your art?

In my calligraphy artworks, chiaroscuro plays a key role in adding depth and emotion to my pieces. By using light and dark contrasts, I can bring certain words or characters to life, drawing attention to the parts that are most meaningful to me. This technique helps create a sense of movement and flow within the script, making each stroke feel more alive. It also allows me to infuse my work with mood and atmosphere, whether I want to evoke a sense of peace, mystery, or intensity. Overall, chiaroscuro adds richness to my calligraphy, enhancing both its visual impact and spiritual depth.