From Layers to Life: Creating Composition Through Textured Backgrounds December 15 - 17

About

This workshop aims to offer participants a comprehensive artistic experience that explores the relationship between background and composition by building rich, layered surfaces—an approach for which artist Sana Nizam is well known. The process begins with creating a multi-layered background shaped through repetition, scratching, and color application. From these layers, ideas and visual elements emerge organically, guiding the artist toward forming the final artwork. Participants will learn how to “listen” to the surface of the canvas and discover the hidden imagery within its layers. They will also practice integrating various elements—such as Arabic calligraphy, portraiture, still life, birds, and botanical forms—within the abstract foundations of the work. The workshop enhances experimental thinking and visual storytelling skills, deepening participants’ understanding of the role of layers in creating depth and richness. By the end of the workshop, each participant will complete a cohesive artwork that reflects their personal voice, while gaining new skills in building complex surfaces and developing composition from within the background rather than imposing it onto a blank canvas. They will also acquire a deeper understanding of how layers, color, and texture interact to create a visually harmonious and meaningful piece.

Dates
December 15, 16, 17

Time
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (2 hours daily)

Duration

 3 days – total of 6 training hours

Language: English

Instructor:

 Sana Nizam is an international visual artist from Karachi, Pakistan, known for addressing themes of identity, culture, and women’s issues through an expressive style rooted in deep visual storytelling. She won first place in the 2021 International Committee of the Red Cross drawing competition and has participated in prestigious art exhibitions across the UAE and abroad, including Union Exhibition for the Arts in Abu Dhabi, Art Nights at Dubai International Financial Centre, Ryerson University in Toronto, Omani Society for Fine Arts, and Dasia Gallery in New York. She also represented Pakistan at Expo Dubai and participated in the Karachi Biennale, in addition to holding a solo exhibition at ArtChowk Gallery. Sana collaborated on the art project “The Butterfly Woman,” which achieved top auction bids and highlighted women’s issues between Karachi and Norway. Her works have appeared in various charity auctions supporting education in Dubai. Sana Nizam continues to produce impactful artworks that carry profound humanitarian messages, spark dialogue, and inspire audiences.