Sara Hoque

Can you share the journey that led you to become an artist, and what drew you to abstract painting?

Having always been creative, I went on to study fine art at Kingston University. During this period I was encouraged to experiment a lot more and this is something I really enjoyed after spending most of my life drawing. After I graduated I wasn't sure how to have a career as an artist so I ended up taking a long break. It wasn't until covid and being furloughed that I started properly creating again. I think part of why I got into abstract art was because I felt like I had forgotten how to draw. I started working with paint and collage and my work developed from there. I got my first studio and ended up doing some art fairs which went so well that I decided to leave my day job and do this full time!

Your work is inspired by the natural world. How do you translate elements of nature into your abstract pieces?

My work is really inspired by memories and my experiences in nature which present themselves in motifs. Usually trees and mountains as a lot of my inspiration comes from Norway where I spent a considerable amount of time as a child. 

Could you describe your creative process, from the initial concept to the finished artwork?

I don't usually plan my work. I have recently begun painting in series based on a certain place so I will have a rough idea in mind. I tend to have a colour in mind for the background but once the work starts the process is very intuitive. My use of colour and mark making is based on composition and what feels right.

Working from Grow Studios in Hackney Wick must offer a unique environment. How does this setting influence your art?

Hackney Wick is a very vibrant area so the colours definitely keep me inspired. It's also on the River Lea where I live on my narrowboat which feels like a natural oasis amongst the city!

Are there specific themes or messages you aim to convey through your paintings?

My work is about capturing the awe and wonder that's experienced in nature. Our connection to natural landscapes is often forgotten as we get older and this is something I want to remind people of. As children we saw nature as something brilliant and fascinating and a feeling I want to reclaim. Being outside is so good for our mental wellbeing and grasping all these elements is what is my main purpose.

How do you select the materials and techniques you use in your work?

I paint with acrylic because it works well with my painting style. I can use the paint watered down to create washes for my backgrounds or to create thicker brushstrokes. The techniques I use come from experimenting. My style has developed over time from trying new things and seeing what I enjoy at the time.

Which artists or movements have significantly influenced your artistic style?

I personally have not been directly influenced by a particular artist, although I do enjoy the work of Dali. I am very interested in the idea of 'The Sublime' and how some of the Old Masters captured this concept- greatness beyond comprehension in regard to strikingly beautiful natural landscapes.

How do you engage with the art community in London, and what role does collaboration play in your practice?

The majority of my engagement with art and artists in London is a result of taking part in The Other Art fair many times. I have met so many wonderful artists and friends who I try to support at events and exhibitions when I can!

Can you discuss any challenges you've faced as an artist and how you've overcome them?

There are a few challenges I've faced but the biggest one is financial. Being an artist is very unpredictable and income is not consistent at all. I have been in a position where I realised I was creating work just to sell and I had lost a lot of the joy I get from creating. When I realised this I set myself a 30 day challenge where I was not allowed to paint a single finished painting on canvas. I also set myself daily prompts for new things to try out. It was very successful and resulted in me creating a new body of work which was different and something I felt extremely connected to! Money can still be a struggle but I am very motivated and just keep persevering.

What advice would you offer to emerging artists who are exploring abstract painting?

Abstract painting can be quite difficult to start with. I found it really difficult as I am one of those people that doesn't like to 'ruin' a sketchbook but it's so important to get out of that headspace and just start experimenting. This thing I found that helped the most was painting on scraps of paper to take the pressure away. I also really enjoy collage and it's my go to when I'm feeling a bit stuck. I have a box of random clippings which I can just pick up and play around with different colours and compositions!