Local Business Shoutout: Niqa.art

I love looking at Niqa.art's instagram. Her paintings are so gorgeous! Each painting has its own unique blend of design and I love how the colours blend so beautifully together. I am a fan of her works and look forward to seeing her latest stuffs.

That is why for March's Local Business shoutout, I decided to interview Faiqah to share more about herself and her brand, Niqa.art. Let's get to know this sweet lady and her gorgeous art works.

Faiqah, owner of Niqa.art

Photo Credit: Faiqah

Salam Faiqah! I am a huge fan! Do introduce yourself and your business, Niqa.art.

I'm a homebody who loves to spend my leisure time doing something creative or anything hands-on like baking & painting! From time to time, I enjoy going outdoor doing activities like cycling & picnic with my family & friends. I prefer savoury food and also loveeee anything that is spicy!

Niqa.art is my first art business, where I offer Islamic quote calligraphy and loose floral paintings. Occasionally, I also accept custom works, like faceless portrait drawings. The first sale I made was back in 2020 when I sold handmade bookmarks with calligraphy on them. I also provide freelance graphic design work on the side.

Photo Credit: Niqa.art

When and why did you decide to create Niqa.art?

Niqa.art started back in 2018 when I was in my final year at ITE. I used this account to share the artwork that I did during my course which was Visual Communication. Slowly a few years passed, I decided to focus on calligraphy and floral paintings and grow from there.

Now that I have turned Niqa.art into my art business, my purpose is to spread inspiring & Islamic reminders to those who need that extra push in their daily life. Islamic and inspiring quotes have always helped me to remind myself on days that I find struggle to go through & I hope my artwork will help them in some ways too!

What were the difficulties you faced when you first started?

Having self-doubt and imposter syndrome is one of the difficulties I faced when I first started. The constant question that plays in my mind is whether my artwork worth to be posted online or not. It takes a long time and practice for me to remind myself that I have to start somewhere even if I'm bad at it.

Photo Credit: Niqa.art

How is your routine like on a day to day basis?

Currently, I'm putting a pause on Niqa.art as I'm focusing on other commitments like my full-time job and my freelance projects. During the weekdays, I usually work on my full-time job, and at night, I usually work on freelance design projects. For my weekends, I mainly settle my household chores, attend religious classes, and try to make time for painting practice. Insyallah I plan to take fewer design projects in the second/ third quarter of 2025 so that I can give my attention to my art business! Please keep me in your prayers!

What are the most rewarding aspects of being a business owner?

Despite having only sold a few pieces of my art, the most rewarding part of being a business owner is knowing that my products will help someone feel comforted and inspired.

Who are your role models?

I don't particularly have any role models but in the art scene, I mainly look at all of my artists friends who have came a long way to reach where they are right now. It is inspiring and admirable to see their determination and hard work they have put into their business!

What tools, systems, books or resources would you recommend for business owners?

I don't have any specific recommendations for business owners but I do recommend this book titled 'Steal like an artist' by Austin Kleon. I think every creative who wants to pursue art as their business should read it. It's a good way to get yourself motivated and inspired!

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAqWSoJyhwD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Photo Credit: Niqa.art

Also, I would recommend you to sign up for workshop organised by business owners who share about having the right mindset when it comes to having a business because doing art and doing business is two different thing. As I come from a design background and have no business background, it helps me a lot on how to sell my art and things I should take note of. It allows me to have a right mindset and be prepared of the challenges in the future.

How do you find inspiration and creativity for your business ideas?

I usually look at other artists process and their thought behind their artwork for inspiration. Also, going out for a walk helps too!

What advice will you give to aspiring business owners?

My advice to myself and other aspiring business owners is to dedicate yourself to what you are pursuing and leave the rest to Him and never give up! Regardless of what happens, you know you've done your best, so what happens doesn't matter. It is better to be bad at something at the start than not doing anything at all.

What is the future going to be like for you and Niqa.art?

I hope to make my art business as one of my main income in the future insyallah! My goal for Niqa.art is to participate in Islamic events, and eventually become a stockist in cafes and bookstores locally and overseas!

Photo Credit: Niqa.art

We hope to see your art works in shops and cafes soon too! Be updated with Niqa.art at their instagram here!