Today we’d like to introduce you to Maham Azhar.
Hi Maham, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Creativity has been my defining trait for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was constantly doodling, painting, and crafting, finding immense joy and solace in expressing myself through various art forms. It was as if the world around me came alive through my imagination and creativity. During my time at the University of Michigan, I took multiple classes such as hip-hop funk dance, mixed media sculpture, ceramics among many others, to explore my artistic expression while majoring in Sociology. While it was liberating to continue exploring my passion as a hobby, I always hesitated to take it up professionally. There was a constant tug of war between choosing a corporate path to build a safe future for myself or chase my passion with its endless possibilities and uncertainties. Amidst this hodgepodge of thoughts and doubts came COVID; it was my last semester at college, and I dreaded every second I had to miss out on my campus life. However, after realizing that I somehow had plenty of time to spare at home, I created my public art account on Instagram under the name “Mayhemism.” I sketched day in, day out and started posting my work online. Despite my work being heavily inspired by surrealism and gloominess (hence the name Mayhemism) people seemed to really appreciate the authenticity and the raw perspective it offered, so much so that I started getting orders for commissioned work.
Sketching still continues to be my core expression; however, I have evolved so much both mentally and emotionally over the years, and “Mayhemism” just had to evolve with it. Now, my digital art space has become a journal of my many creative expressions, be it photography, visual arts, storytelling, designing, etc. I have very recently launched my own merch shop on Etsy where you can find some quirky and unique T-shirts for casual wear, mugs, tote bags for yourself, or as a gift to your loved ones. I have spent an incredible amount of time designing the merchandise in a way that aligns with my personal creative expression while staying trendy.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Nothing in this world ever comes easy. To begin with, my own fears, doubts, and insecurities have been, and still are my major obstacles. Growing up in a world where fast-paced lifestyles, choosing the path of least resistance, and pursuing capitalistic goals are readily rewarded, it becomes hard to convince yourself to go on a different path— one that you would have to build yourself. For me, learning to unlearn negative thinking patterns and relearn new ones, and approaching my life with a growth mindset, has genuinely helped me gain clarity and restore faith in myself.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an evolving creative who specializes in pencil art, graphic designing, and digital art. I have my own merch shop on Etsy, showcasing a variety of my cool and kooky designs. Additionally, I take on commissioned work in both pencil and digital art catering to the preferences of my client. My work explores themes of surrealism, realism, dark/gore and frequently revolves around nature. What sets my creative process apart is that I allow it to follow its natural pace rather than relying on algorithms or scripts. This approach grants me the freedom to create with complete artistic expression, making my work truly unique.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
In my personal experience, connecting with myself, resolving inner battles, and finding my true voice is what has truly worked for me. It is easier said than done and remains a constant work in progress, but the rewards are incomparable to anything else. While it might have taken me less time, effort, and work had I found a good mentor, this is how my journey was meant to be. However, I cannot stress enough the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded people who encourage and acknowledge your work while inspiring you to become a better version of yourself. In the online art community, I greatly admire the work of Kerby Rosanes and Jono Dry; their art serves as an unending source of inspiration for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/mayhemism
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mayhemism?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
