Haseebah - Unlocking Creativity
Haseebah Ali
Artist and Arts Educator
BA (Hons) Illustration
Haseebah faced negative opinions about her choice to pursue a career in Art, but this only motivated her. After finding her passion for printmaking, Haseebah now passes on her artistic skills to others through arts education in the community and has proudly exhibited her culturally significant work at Saatchi Gallery and Birmingham’s Ikon Gallery.
“Art has always been my passion, but it’s not something people see potential in. I find that in South Asian and Muslim communities, it’s rare to find someone who studies Art or is a successful Artist.
Birmingham’s art scene and cultural diversity inspired me, and I knew I wanted to showcase my own culture and upbringing as a professional artist. Pursuing an unexpected subject gave me the motivation to prove people wrong and turn my passion into a career.
I chose BCU because the facilities are outstanding. My experience in the Print Room and the knowledge I gained from the technicians helped hone the printmaking skills that I practise today. I had access to traditional presses and facilities that allowed me to experiment and find my artistic style.
Before graduating, I secured a role as an Artist in Residency in BCU’s Print Room. I taught my first print-making workshop here which gave me the confidence to talk in front of large groups. I realised I had a talent for teaching others my craft and unlocking their creativity.
I went on to teach at a school and create activities in a therapeutic ward. Now, I facilitate my own workshops in art galleries and community settings, working with universities and schools and travelling around the UK. I’m passionate about creating spaces that amplify voices and encourage artistic expression.
I also have my own studio and work as an artist. I produce commissioned pieces as well as exhibiting pieces. My work centres around storytelling and often has cultural or political themes.
I’m particularly proud of my work ‘Emerald Floods’, inspired by the floods in Pakistan. The pieces were exhibited at Saatchi Gallery in collaboration with WaterAid and the British Art Fair. It’s a piece that’s close to my heart and I was very proud to show it and have the works purchased. It was surreal to have my work next to the likes of David Hockney and Damien Hurst.
Recently, I’ve had my work exhibited at the Ikon Gallery in Birmingham. The Ikon is such a significant gallery in Birmingham, I'm honoured to be a part of their list of exhibitors."
My time at BCU made me a more confident artist and educator. Being a BCU alumna and displaying my work in Birmingham has made me prouder of my cultural identity.”
