Iqra, the girl who does art with henna! Iqra Farid, an Industrial Designer by profession, is a henna artist on the side! In a time where people have moved on to more contemporary art forms, Iqra has turned this into a side business for herself and wants to continue it!

Iqra is in our Gota suit for Rs.10,998/- Shop in stores and online.

 
A tet-a-tet with the Islamabad based Mehndi Artist. Read on to as the artist gives a low down on her journey.

Iqra is in our Chamak suit. Shop in stores and online. 

 

What sparked your interest in henna/mehndi?

Since childhood, mehndi has always been something that has fascinated me. My notebooks were filled with doodles. It took me a long time to learn how to hold a cone and I haven’t left it ever since. Mehndi is not a dying art at all; in fact, it is something that unites us, promotes our traditions and values. None of our festivities are complete without henna, be it Eid or a wedding, mehndi is something that is a must for every girl.

Iqra is in our Gota suit for Rs.10,998/- Shop in stores and online.

 

When did you decide to make it more than just a hobby?

I guess it just happened on its own- over the years as I did it for friends and family, after the advent of social media, I started getting queries from a lot more people.
I believe that one must enjoy the work they do, and if that is not the case, it isn’t meant for you. I enjoy doing henna a lot, and I can do it for hours! The art of henna is not just a way of expressing your creativity, but it also enhances essential human characteristics like patience, hard work and focus. Moreover, you get to meet amazing people and hear their stories along the way!

Iqra is in our Chunri suit for Rs./- Shop in stores and online. 

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I always try to create intricate and delicate patterns, adding elements that are different from the typical motifs used. My main inspiration comes from Islamic geometry and arabesque patterns. I try incorporating new elements into my designs, hence creating a unique experience for my clients.

Iqra is in our Chunri suit for Rs./- Shop in stores and online. 

 
I have now developed a whole catalog of my original designs- so even when I don’t have a client I make my designs on paper; it helps keep my creative juices flowing! And P.S to let you know, the inverse filled henna with gulf henna, is popular nowadays and trending.