Fayetteville Artist Shabana Kauser Opens New Exhibit
On Friday, at the Acansa Gallery and Store in North Little Rock, Fayetteville artist Shabana Kauser is set to open her new solo exhibit, “Dupattas & Roses.” This exhibit promises to showcase Shabana’s latest works, which are deeply rooted in her personal journey and cultural heritage.
Born and raised in Central London, UK, Shabana has strong ties to Pakistan through her parents. Her art combines these influences, reflecting both her experiences as the daughter of Pakistani immigrants and as an immigrant herself in the United States.
Shabana’s journey to becoming an artist was not a straightforward one. After studying business IT and information management, she worked in the corporate world before her husband received a job opportunity in the US. However, due to strict immigration laws, she was unable to work for several years, which led her to discover her passion for creating art. This newfound creative outlet allowed her to connect with people and share her story.
Shabana’s artistic talent has been gaining significant recognition. She has exhibited her work at notable institutions such as the 21c Museum, Baker University in Kansas, and the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum. She has also participated in The Other Art Fair in Dallas and Chicago, and has been contracted for community engagement projects by Crystal Bridges Museum.
Throughout her work, Shabana often incorporates the “Dupatta” (scarf), a traditional South Asian garment, as a symbol of her cultural roots. Her paintings explore themes of social, cultural, and economic transition, reflecting her experiences as an immigrant.
This year, Shabana received the prestigious Arkansas 2023 Individual Artist Fellowship Award, a testament to her rapid progress and artistic accomplishments. She continues to impress with her latest exhibit, “Dupattas & Roses,” at the Acansa Gallery and Store.
