Meet Sumera Asghar, the national league basketball player who is now an acclaimed artist

Sumera played basketball for Manchester and went on to coach Under 16’s. But after she became pregnant with her first child, Sumera decided to change her career path and decided to focus on her other passion - art.

Sumera, said, “I wanted to do something that would balance both work and family life. 

“That’s when I went ahead to pursue my career as being an artist and the journey never stopped. 

“Although I have been an artist for eight years, I started getting recognition about two years ago after producing a couple of original oil paintings for boxer Amir Khan.

“I created two contemporary abstract pieces for his new home which were much appreciated.”

Sumera specialises in original contemporary abstract art. By fusing a mixture of colours, textures and techniques, she translates emotions onto the canvas by honing in on her personal experiences.

Working from her studio in Bolton, Sumera explains where she draws inspiration from.

“I think it’s very important to have your work space away from home, a place that is just for you alone, especially in the creative field.

“You need your own personal creative space where you can think, imagine and produce your vision.
“Distortion of objects or images are commonly used within abstract art. 

“This allows everyday items to become the most beautiful fantasies. 

“Using human emotion, feelings and most importantly, the subconscious, I am able to produce work derived from my various life experiences, creating an ethereal world on canvas. 

“The work is a free flow of vibrant and extravagant colour. Through the strokes and textures, a world is created, a world of unlimited possibilities, a world created by you, the observer.”

Sumera revealed how her children influence her work significantly.

“My contemporary abstract art is primarily inspired by my children. Their laughter, happiness and freedom is a huge element in the work produced. 

“My artist name is Emanza which actually originated from the distortion of the names of my children Emaan and Hamza. I am known as @emanza_art on social media.”

An Islamic theme features in some of Sumera’s work. She explains why this is important to her.

“I like to portray the beauty of Islam and the history of Islam through the art I produce.

“It’s my depiction of Islamic history.

“It’s one thing talking, reading and writing about religion, but to actually see it in abstract form is a whole different experience. 

“I want to show that Arabic calligraphy is not the only form to portray Islam through art. The beauty can also be seen through abstract.”

The eldest of eight siblings, Sumera studied art for A-level. Whilst her work was admired critically, she remained oblivious to her skills. 

“I was always told by my art tutors that I had something special. 

“I didn’t really understand what that meant then until I started to produce work for various exhibitions.
“People were interested in the way I painted and my presentation of light within my work. 

“I was asked questions about my feelings and experiences for them to understand and connect with my work and I loved that.

“The feeling of appreciation for something that is original and has been created solely by you is just so overwhelming. 

“I am a firm believer of pursuing your passion. If you have talent use it! 

“Talent is not something you can learn, it’s God given. It’s a gift given for a reason. The only way to find out is to go for it.”

This special feature appeared in the July Edition of Asian Life here