Unframed: Ayesha Feisal

Unframed is a story-led series spotlighting Black artists not just through their work, but through their world. Part day-in-the-life, part reflective journal, and part conversation. This chapter introduces the next artist to exhibit with The Lemon Seed Project: Ayesha Feisal.

Ayesha Feisal

Describe yourself and your work in your own words.

I am an interdisciplinary artist whose practice is rooted in an ongoing exploration of the mind, human behaviour, and the emotional imprint of lived experience.

My work is a reflection of my journey as a woman — inspired by the feminine form, the psyche, and the body’s capacity for resilience. Through painting, sculpture, and other media, I explore emotional and physiological states, drawing connections between the body, nature, and spirituality.

My creative process is also guided by a deep interest in perception, universal law, balance, and truth. I see creativity as a tool for healing, resistance, and spiritual remembering — a way to transmute experience into something meaningful and enduring.

Why did you choose the disciplines you work in?

Before I ever picked up a paintbrush, I drew — obsessively. I didn’t start painting until my A-levels. Back then, I didn’t know colour theory or even how to handle paint properly. What I did have was sketchbooks filled with pencil drawings — of shoes, people, whatever was around me — but they were always in black and white.

My tutor had to take me back to basics and introduced me to the colour wheel. I didn’t realise at the time how limited my access to art materials had been growing up. Learning to paint was like discovering a new language.

Drawing still underpins everything I do — painting, sculpture, digital work — I love the immediacy of translating thought to hand.

I didn’t explore sculpture until much later, after moving into a commercial artist workspace. Before that, I worked from home, which was also my family’s living space, so certain practices were limited due to health/safety, equipment, and space. My new studio gave me room to push materials and processes I couldn’t have touched before. Sculpture opened another dimension — another vehicle for my thoughts to take form.

What was the very first piece you ever made, and when?

The first piece I remember as a “real” artwork was a self-portrait in secondary school. I drew my skin as a brick wall — yellow, brown, and red oxide bricks. It was in coloured pencil, a head floating on a plain background. I was so proud of that piece.

At the time, I didn’t know how to articulate what I was doing — I just followed feeling. I didn’t understand my choices yet, but I trusted them.

What’s your favourite time to create and why?

If we’re talking about the physical execution of ideas — like painting or sculpting — I love the early morning. There’s something about the sunrise and the newness of the day that fills me with possibility. My focus is sharp and I feel fresh enough to meet the physical demands of making. By mid-afternoon, I tend to wilt — but by then, I’ve usually made solid progress and can end the day feeling accomplished.

When it comes to the conceptual side, I’m in my head most of the time — constantly absorbing and downloading. Ideas often come to me in the early hours, around 4–5 a.m., or in that in-between space just before waking. I keep a mini whiteboard, pens, and pads by my bed — I’ve lost too many good ideas by going back to sleep! I also use my notes app throughout the day religiously.

What’s your favourite piece of your own and what does it say about you?

A favourite piece of mine is ROOTED (INFINITE SOURCE) — a sculptural work that reflects on strength and power rooted in the experiences and physiology of my womanhood. It draws from the sacral and root energy centres, symbolising creativity, grounding, safety, and collective consciousness. The feet — often associated with movement and support — are depicted in a state of stillness, pausing to reconnect with the earth and self.

ROOTED (INFINITE SOURCE) by Ayesha Feisal

The colours in the work were inspired by the Sarracenia Purpurea, a carnivorous pitcher plant that thrives in poor soil — a metaphor for resilience in challenging environments. The deep magenta and white tones carry symbolic weight: magenta for transformation and emotional release, and white for openness, potential, and creative expansion.

The materials I used underwent physical, sometimes unpredictable transformations during the making — which mirrors the nature of the journey the piece speaks to. That process of surrender, emergence, and rebirth is at the heart of what I value in both my life and my practice.

What does success as an artist look like?

For me, success is staying true to my voice — being in alignment with what I make, how I share it, and who I create with, without compromising my values.

Success also manifests as impact: when the work moves people, starts conversations, or makes someone feel seen, grounded, or challenged in some way. It’s not just about visibility — it’s about resonance and legacy.

What do you feel is missing in the art world right now?

Care. I think the art world needs more intentionality — in how artists are supported, how work is shown, and how spaces are held. Beyond visibility, we need infrastructure that centres sustainability, healing, and deep engagement. Slowness, spaciousness, and integrity over constant production.

Do you think you’ll always create art?

Absolutely. Art is intrinsic to who I am. It’s something I’ve always done and always will — whether or not anyone’s watching.

One tip you’d give to emerging or younger artists?

Don’t compromise your vision or principles — your voice has value.

Reflection by Ayesha Feisal, soon to be shown as part of her exhibition with the Lemon Seed Project

Where to find her

You can explore more of Ayesha’s practice at www.ayeshas-arthouse.com and on Instagram.

And next month, Ayesha will be exhibiting with The Lemon Seed Project. Full details coming next week.