Suhail generates interesting art on glass and exposure to light gives it life. Ishtiyak Margray meet an artist who works as a carpenter in the day and spares night for his passion
Amidst the soft embrace of gentle rain, Suhail Ahmad Bhat graces the scene with the timeless elegance of his traditional Kashmiri pheran. Emerging from the enclave of Takiya Magam in Anantnag, the 25-year-old artist takes his first steps into the day, cocooned by the embrace of mountains.
After graduating from Government High School Takiya Magam, Suhail’s academic journey hit an abrupt pause in the tenth grade due to his family’s financial hardships.
“I will never erase the image of my father’s tearful eyes when he learned I had to leave school. He made valiant efforts to secure me a quality education,” Suhail recalls. “It was undeniably a setback for me, a detour from the educational path I had envisioned.”
Suhail’s childhood showcased his artistic flair, creating wooden JCBs, apple cutters, and electronic equipment. He is a self-taught artist.
Against the current of family scepticism, Suhail’s creative spirit surged. “After school or on those rare off days, I immersed myself in crafting—a childhood fervour that became the heartbeat of my creativity,” Suhail revealed. His father destroyed the clay birds and demolished the miniature huts, insisting on prioritising education. Nevertheless, fuelled by an insatiable curiosity, Suhail ventured into the uncharted territories of diverse art forms.
Creating A Unique Identity
His path was challenging, and filled with ups and downs. The journey into the world of shadow art was an odyssey, but dedication proved to be the key to conquering every challenge. Suhail revealed that he has harboured a passion for shadow art since childhood, often filling scrap papers with his scribbles. Those engagements compelled him to take this art seriously, aiming for a unique identity in society.
Enduring taunts and teasing from friends who perceived his passion as futile, he yearned for recognition in a different field. “One day, a friend challenged me to craft his shadow image, having observed my constant dedication to scrap papers.” He accepted it. Describing the process of crafting the shadow image, he mentioned that his friend paused for a few seconds, and at that moment, “my art spoke to me”. After the process ended his friend was filled with excitement. After that, “I didn’t look back”, considering that moment a turning point.
Suhail’s curiosity didn’t halt; it fuelled a desire to explore more within the realm of this peculiar art, marking the inception of his journey as a shadow artist.
Suhail always aimed to contribute to society, envisioning innovation where learning happens on walls rather than on boards. “My dream is to contribute to society, especially to children’s studies,” he said. “I envisioned an innovation where learning happens on walls rather than boards.”
Earning money was never his motive. Instead, he had a unique passion for the art and a relentless drive to improve his skills. Following this, he created shadow art featuring icons like Gandhi, Albert Einstein, Bhagat Singh, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Babar Azam, and many more. The artwork is made of pencils, scissors, and different colours. “It is not a sketch or a painting but just a shadow,” he said.
A Lone Journey
Numerous ideas swirl within him, but the absence of platforms and a concrete plan presented a formidable challenge. Life’s expenses, coupled with a lack of resources, left him stranded; a myriad of thoughts echo in his mind, yet they seem confined to a corner. “I have so many ideas about different innovations in my mind, but the lack of resources and a platform to showcase my talent always dejected my spirit and passion,” Suhail regretted.
In adversity, a ray of hope pierced through when Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid extended a helping hand, offering encouragement. His office called him to Anantnag. “The next morning, I eagerly made my way to the office where DC sir not only showered me with words of praise but also offered his unwavering support.” Holding his excitement back in his eyes Suhail swiftly added, “Apart from him, I’ve stood alone.”
Realising the power of social media, a pivotal moment occurred when Suhail’s cousin suggested, “Instead of seeking assistance, showcase your talent there.” This advice sparked the initiation of their YouTube and Instagram channel, aptly named Photo Shadow Artist.
Perseverance
Leaving school midway emerges as the most formidable challenge in Suhail’s life. “It’s disheartening.”
After leaving school, Suhail embarked on a journey to Srinagar, where he honed his carpentry skills. He is currently forging a career in the field. “I had to think of survival and providing financial help to my family; art alone would not have met the requirements, so I learned carpentry, and today I work as a carpenter,” he explained.
Amid disappointment and the absence of support, the emotional weight was profound. Yet, “I persisted in the hope of a brighter future. Despite limited family resources, I didn’t give up; I continued to pursue my passion,” he shared with enthusiasm.
