Aparna Hakim

I've always been interested in art and looked forward to art classes when I was in school. Coloring books that featured folk art fascinated me and have become my inspiration.

I honed my skills as an artist and participated in competitions when I was in school. From painting in coloring books to painting on canvas and selling my work — my journey has been eventful but also marked by tragedy. When I lost my parents to illness, I struggled to make ends meet.

"With a lot of encouragement from my husband, I decided to get started on my own. While I handle the creative aspect, he deals with marketing and accounting. It is because of his undying support that I am where I am today.

"I usually work in acrylic on canvas. While I have a degree in interior design, I am mostly a self taught artist and I strive to grow and learn every day.

"I've never found it difficult to create, but I do find it challenging to reach the people who appreciate my art and are willing to purchase it. So I plan to focus on crafting useful objects that bring paintings into daily life and overcome this challenge.

"I have always seen art as a way of life and try to pass this concept on to my students who seek a future in the arts. I had the opportunity to pursue it and embraced it with open arms. I try to extend that opportunity to as many people as I can. I teach and employ underprivileged women in my community so they can become self sufficient, and I find this rewarding."