"Creativity takes courage." — Henri Matisse.

I used to read this quote and wonder what it truly meant. It was a collection of words that held a vague meaning until, one day; I decided to dive headfirst into the world of art. Little did I know that these words would become my mantra, guiding me through a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and above all, courage.

Growing up, my fascination with all things creative knew no bounds. Music, performing arts, and even the written word - I reveled in them all. I vividly remember participating in painting contests, even though my strokes were far from perfect. I crafted a jewelry box from dried pasta and fashioned a lamp using a humble ridge gourd's loofah sponge. These were my early ventures, a testament to the unfiltered creativity that bubbled within me.

The roots of this courage were planted by my mother, who may not have pursued art professionally but radiated artistic energy in everything she did. My maternal grandfather, Pakistan's pioneer landscape architect, used to write poetry and paint, and my paternal grandfather, though working for the government, would indulge in writing, even finished a book but never got it published. My aunts and uncles have creative talents, but no one is pursuing them as a profession or lifestyle. However, they all sparked the fire that would later blaze a trail for me. And then there was my father who took me to my very first concert when I was just a wide-eyed eight-year-old, knowing my adoration for the singer. All that unwavering support planted the seeds of what was to come.

Hobbies turned into passions, and as I grew, the desire to weave art into the fabric of my life intensified. However, the society I grew up in considered art merely a hobby, a fleeting indulgence rather than a steadfast path. Embracing art as a lifestyle or career seemed like a distant dream, shrouded in societal norms and expectations.

But a rebel in me had other plans. Today, I stand as a testament to the belief that art is not just an endeavour but an act of courage. To be an artist is to defy convention, to cast aside the doubts that echo from within and without. It is a journey that requires relentless determination and an unwavering commitment to live life painted in strokes of creativity.

My journey has been a roller-coaster from a novice who experimented with photography to an artist who sells prints and crafts poetry. And yet, through every high and low, the fire of creativity burned brighter. But it's no walk in the park. People still view it as a delightful hobby to indulge in when life allows. But today, no matter what others say, I have no ounce of intimidation of claiming myself as an artist.

So, what defines an artist? An artist is a soul who dares to bring something new into the world, a heart that yearns to communicate through the medium of their craft. An artist is not just a creator; they are a messenger, conveying their thoughts, musings, and occasionally, the depths of their emotions through their chosen expression.

My journey to claim my identity as an artist was challenging. There were hurdles to overcome, battles with self-doubt, and societal whispers that tried to drown out my voice. But today, I can stand tall and proud. I am a published poet, a member of the Board of Directors at the prestigious Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning in Ontario, a juror for various art projects, and a promoter of fellow artists on national and international platforms.

None of this would have been possible if I hadn't mustered the courage to embrace art as a passion and the essence of my being. Every word penned, every frame captured, they all narrate a story of resilience and courage.

So, to everyone who has ever wondered if they can be an artist, remember this: creativity takes courage. It takes the audacity to break free from the chains of conformity and leap into a realm where the only limits are those you set for yourself. It takes the audacity to declare, "I am an artist," and let that declaration be your guiding star on a path less travelled.

Ultimately, I've understood that Henri Matisse's words were not just a collection of letters but a call to action. And today, I answer that call with every verse of my poetry and every beat of my heart.

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For premium edition: Order at Daastan; My Editor & Publisher

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