Today we’d like to introduce you to Khadija Gulamhusein.
Khadija, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As far as back as I can remember, I have always loved creating art. Art is a way of capturing and creating work that speaks more than words can. Just being able to create is something I relish.
I draw inspiration from anywhere or anything depending on my mood, my inner self and how other artists create. Just the beauty of creating itself is an inspiration to me. The fact that one can bring their emotions and thoughts to life to create almost anything is magical and therapeutic to me. It’s like a glimpse into someone’s mind and personality. It’s a way of not only expressing myself but a way of exploring my own self and my aesthetics.
RidaVogue is a way of introducing Bohra women to the fashion world. Where inspiration is derived from small to big fashion brands to create a look of its own; that Bohra women can wear themselves in a manner where high fashion doesn’t stop them from being covered. RidaVogue is made to encourage Bohra Women, that they should be proud of what they wear and that their attire shouldn’t stop them from achieving the goals they want to achieve in life.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
RidaVogue was made to encourage Bohra Women, to be proud of their attire and wear it proudly. As a Bohra woman myself and a person who wears Rida which is what we call the attire we wear; I had my own journey when it came to finding my own confidence. An advice to any Muslim women who cover themselves is to not let the words of others affect you. If you are content with yourself and proud the negative words from others should not be of importance to you. Of course, it can some comment can be hurtful but find strength in your attire and own it and work it like the world is your runway. A little cliché but try it!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about your business – what should we know?
My RidaVogue series is still fairly new but I have big plans for it in the coming future. I believe my work this project sets me apart from others as it integrates the attires from our culture and the fashion industry together. It also helps Bohra women to find inspiration in how to dress and mix and match their attire while still remaining covered. Other than RidaVogue, I draw many pieces of work with female subjects as the main focus as I enjoy drawing females who have a fierce, powerful aura.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
I feel women are positioned for many great opportunities. Through the challenges we have faced as women we have become stronger as a whole. Standing up for one another, supporting one another and not letting others put us down for being women; and that itself provides us with more opportunities to be able to stand up to the challenges we face and reach higher ground, I think women are well positioned for any area of work, we could take on anything!
Contact Info:
- Email: kreationsofk@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khadija.gulamhusein/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/kreationsofk?lang=en
Image Credit:
Khadija Gulamhusein
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