About

Najma was born and raised in east Africa. She immigrated to Canada in 1974. Toronto has been her home since. Najma taught in an elementary school in York Region for a number of years. She now spends more time with her family, painting and traveling She has exhibited in artist run and commercial galleries, and community projects in Toronto. Her work over the years has ranged from painting in oils and acrylics to mixed media. She continues to explore newer techniques and genres in enriching her repertoire.

Artist Statement

As an artist I am interested in how paint interacts with surfaces, grounds and other materials such as paper,. I use canvas, wood panels and paper to create my artwork largely with acrylic and oils.

This process, engaging tactile and visual textures satisfies the sense of curiosity, adventure and risk taking that comes with my responses to soaks, marks, spills, experiments and accidents.

I rarely begin a painting from direct inspiration or prompts. My choice of palette, marks and direction is instinctive and spontaneous. Any reference to external surroundings or introspection is an afterthought upon reflection.