TEXTURE & VIBRANT BEAUTY
by EAM Staff

Aneela Fazal started painting at the age of 10. She began painting in watercolors, as that was the only affordable medium allowed for her to use. She used stones found in her yard on which she created intricate designs. She did not go to school for a fine-arts degree. However, she did attend the University of Karachi, where she earned her undergraduate and masters degrees in apparel design and merchandising. After spending a few years in the apparel industry, Aneela later moved to Texas, where she completed a degree in graphic design.

She and her husband relocated to Portland, Oregon, where she currently works as a senior designer for a national sportswear company. Aneela has developed tennis apparel for elite athletes including Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal and Maria Sharapova.

“My job is very challenging, and painting brings a sense of calm in my life. It’s what I look forward to every day driving home from work. It’s extremely therapeutic for me to paint. I am an eternal optimist and like to believe everything happens for a reason. I can’t imagine my life without art. Painting has always been my most favorite hobby, however it’s slowly turning into a part-time job, and I’m thrilled by the positive response I have received so far.”

Aneela sees beauty in everything that surrounds us, and that is the direct influence on the bright colors in each of her compositions. Her favorite subject matters are landscapes and flowers. Her works are far from traditional, though, as each is highly textured to give a three-dimensional look. She describes her work as “modern abstract” with abstract impressionist influences. Aneela told us the works of Andy Warhol inspires her, as he wasn't afraid to express himself through art that is bold, beautiful and makes a statement.

This was the first year for Aneela to sell her art, and she has been surprised at the phenomenal response. Her first public display was at the SE Portland Art Walk, a two-day event in which she sold out on the first day. She has also showed her works in coffee shops and at RAW Natural Born Artists in Portland.