Sana is a British artist of Kashmiri heritage who grew up in London and currently resides between Brussels and Manchester. Known for her unique approach to botanical art, Sana uses plants and flowers from the English countryside to create abstract floral artwork.
About me
Sana
Botanical art / Floral art / Watercolors art
She primarily works with watercolors, which she employs to bring to life the intricate details of the flora she prints. Each piece is described as a step into a dreamlike creation, celebrating the individuality of the botanicals she uses.
Sana's work is deeply influenced by the natural world—its flora, fauna, and the rich diversity it offers. Her spiritual practice of Sufism is intricately woven into her artistic process, imbuing her work with an ethereal quality. This spiritual connection allows her to explore themes of unity, transcendence, and the mystical beauty of nature, giving her pieces a serene and meditative presence.
From an early age, Sana was drawn to the enchanting, imaginary world of fairies. This childhood fascination continues to influence her art, with subtle resemblances to fairies or butterflies often emerging in her work.
Her artistic journey has been shaped by her academic background in the history of art and design, in which she holds a Bachelor's degree, as well as her 20-year career as a design teacher.
Growing up in London and drawing inspiration from her Kashmiri roots, Sana finds a rich tapestry of influences in the floral handicrafts of Kashmir. Her artistic vision is also inspired by British artists like William Morris, the organic sculptures of Barbara Hepworth, the vivid florals of Paul Gauguin and Georgia O'Keeffe, the fluid photography of Imogen Cunningham, and the delicate shapes and forms of Art Nouveau, which particularly inspired her during life in Belgium.
Sana's creative process is meticulous and time-consuming. It begins with the selection of plants and flowers, chosen according to the season. These botanicals are then carefully assembled and partially cooked to prepare the prints, infusing them with the natural shapes and colors of the bouquets. Once dried, these prints form the canvas upon which Sana applies watercolors, enhancing the natural imprints and reviving the contrasts in shades and shapes.
In the picturesque countryside of Lancashire, Sana finds continual inspiration from the surrounding landscapes. Looking to the future, she envisions expanding her work beyond the UK, traveling to explore and print florals from diverse regions around the world. By incorporating new and exotic botanicals into her art, Sana seeks to deepen her connection to the global beauty of nature, continuing her journey of creating evocative and unique pieces that capture the mystical connection between the earthly and the divine.
Inspiration