en-us-Interview wih Arif Khan, Painter

Interviewer: Vassiliki V. Pappa

vpappa@cultmagz.com

Arif Khan is the most celebrated artist of Pakistan. He has been playing with colours for more than 36 years. He has established himself in the field of creative paintings. Arif Khan as a painter and calligrapher has held Seventeen solo exhibitions and more than Fifty superstitious group Shows in his own country and abroad. He has won many awards and prizes regarding his work..

Vassiliki V. Pappa: Arif, what did you study and what future plans did you have when you were 20 years old?

Arif Khan: Art. Once I finished my schooling I spent a short summer period taking Art Classes. I am a self taught artist and very proud of that fact.

Vassiliki V. Pappa: What is painting for you and when did you decide to take up painting?

Arif Khan: is my life, my love. I started painting at the age of 5 years. I took up painting as a professional artist at the age of 25 years.

Vassiliki V. Pappa: What is the process of creating your own painting?

Arif Khan: I am using all kinds of paint/materials. Mostly my work is mixed medium. Some of my work is on handmade paper, others on board with several materials such as leather, metals etc. and creating my own inspirational source of inner feelings.

Vassiliki V. Pappa: What is it that inspires you and what are your favorite subjects?

Arif Khan: I am inspired by nature and spiritual inner feelings. My favourite subjects to paint are nature and Womens' beautiful faces, spiritual feelings and Islamic stylized Calligraphy.

Vassiliki V. Pappa: Is painting making a progress in Pakistan and who is your favorite painter?

Arif Khan: Yes. In Pakistan there has been great progress. Unfortunately, over the last few years, terrorist attacks have damaged art activity so badly. My favorite artists are Mansoor Rahi and Saeed Akhtar.

Vassiliki V. Pappa: Have you regretted anything in your life since you got involved in painting?

Arif Khan: No. I have no regrets whatsoever.

Vassiliki V. Pappa: Arif, what are your plans for the future?

Arif Khan: My plans for the future. Creating Masterpieces. Also the creation and projection of soft images of my most beautiful and beloved country Pakistan.