Associate Q&As with Asma M Hashmi

Introduction

As an artist and educator based in Oxford, I primarily work in printmaking, which I studied for my Master of Fine Arts degree. I also delve into installations and sculpture as part of my artistic practice. My work is centered around the various aspects of being a woman and a woman of South Asian descent. I examine the ways in which we view our own bodies and how these views are influenced by others. As a woman and immigrant, my experiences of occupying spaces, both architectural and otherwise, play a major role in my art. I delve into how we perceive ourselves and how much of our true selves we are able to maintain as we navigate new environments and adapt to new surroundings. The theme of movement and belonging also feature prominently in my work. You can also find out more at www.asmaahashmi.net

What are you currently working on?

Currently I’m working with Mita Vaghela for a show in Woodstock. My prints for this show feature intricate layers of lines that form patterns and create a sense of belonging within the space. The prints are held by threads, symbolising grounding, and belonging. 

I am utilizing a Japanese technique of transforming paper into cloth by kneading it to increase its strength using oil. The large sheets are then colored with the addition of turmeric (huldi), or with Kashmiri chili, which is a deeper red than regular chilies and holds a special significance for me. This chili is native to the area where my father was born, but due to partition, he was never able to return. He always referred to himself as being from Kashmir, emphasizing the importance of belonging to a place.

Where do you create work?

I am a member of Magdalen Road Studios and have been using their studio space since 2017. I have also collaborated with the studios on several projects, including a print exchange that involved 27 artists from Oxford, Pakistan, and other countries where Pakistani artists reside. In this exchange, each artist contributed an edition of 27 prints and received a print from every participating artist, resulting in a total of 27 box prints. These prints were displayed at Magdalen Road Studios, Oxford Printmakers, and Wolfson College. I am also a member of Oxford Printmakers.

What are your other work commitments, if any?

I conduct workshops in various locations, including adult learning courses at Activate Learning and City of Oxford College. I also lead a Saturday club for 7-12 year olds at the college. Additionally, I run workshops for institutions such as the Ashmolean Museum and conduct summer workshops at different museums and a summer school in Oxford. My primary focus is printmaking for both children and adults, and I am soon to lead a course at OVADA.

How does Associate membership benefit you?

Associate Membership is certainly a valuable asset as it provides opportunities for networking. Since my relocation to Oxford, I have been a frequent attendee and have made many connections with other artists through workshops, exhibitions and panel discussions. The membership offers a wealth of opportunities, from attending workshops and lectures, to showcasing my own work and viewing the works of others.

Describe the last time you felt inspired

I am constantly inspired while teaching! The participants at the City of Oxford courses are a constant source of inspiration for me. I teach them the basics and techniques, and then it’s amazing to see their work evolve as they add their own unique touch to it. My Saturday classes with the young artists are particularly inspiring. Despite having a busy week, I don’t give it up because these young ones are truly inspiring with their focus and imaginative approach to assignments. Their results, from reductive linocut to ceramics, never fail to impress me. In one of the recent projects, I asked them to make teacups and saucers. The results were amazing, with each student adding their own creative touch to the plain teacup I showed them. I’ve got teacups back with birds, branches, half cut melon slice saucers! It’s inspiring to see how they aren’t afraid to express their imagination, while many adults tend to worry about what others might think of their work.

How do you feel the arts benefit society?

The arts have a powerful impact on society by allowing individuals to see the world from different perspectives and fostering a sense of creativity, questioning, and exploration. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem for those who participate in creating art. Additionally, the arts can bring people together, promoting cultural understanding and community building. By exposing people to diverse experiences, the arts can broaden horizons, challenge assumptions, and inspire empathy. The importance of the arts in society cannot be overstated, as it has the ability to enrich our lives and make the world a better place.

You can hear Asma ‘In Conversation’ at OVADA’s next Sunday Hangout – date to released – along with a pop up exhibition of her fascinating works. You can also come along to her woodcut course in April, which will be announced shortly!