Meet Indian artist Suaima Akhtar (@the_bunt_palette), whose paintings drawings are made to calm the mind and inspire the soul! We wanted to explore her creative journey, so we asked a few questions to find out more. Check out Purnima’s insightful art experience below!

How did you discover your inner artist? Was it a gradual process or a surprise discovery?

I have been creating art since childhood, but I never imagined it would become my profession. My dream was to become a psychiatrist. However, life had different plans due to certain events, so I couldn't take admission in psychology. At first, it felt like a door had closed, but then I asked myself: what’s the difference between the two? A psychiatrist calms the mind with words, and I could calm people’s minds with art.

That thought became the turning point of my life. I decided I would not give up. The journey wasn’t easy. I faced many challenges but with the constant support of my family and my own determination, I built a career in art. Looking back, I feel my decision was not wrong at all. Those days when I wanted to study psychology are far behind me, and today, I’m preparing for my PhD entrance in arts. Most importantly, this work gives me peace.

Do you listen to music while creating? If so, what’s your go-to sound?

Yes, music is a constant companion in my creative process. I enjoy calming lo-fi beats, soft indie music, and instrumental pieces that help me stay focused while keeping my emotions connected to the work.

Do you have more of an organised, minimalist home or a bustling, maximalist home? What’s the vibe like?

My home is a balance between order and creative chaos. It’s organised enough for me to find what I need, yet full of colour, tools, and little treasures that spark ideas. It’s not just a living space — it’s a space where creativity flows freely.

If you had to only paint with one art medium for the rest of time, what would you pick?

Oil paints, without a doubt. They have a depth, richness, and timeless beauty that allow me to capture light, shadow, and texture in a way that feels alive.

As a social media artist, how did it feel when you started to show people your work for the first time?

It was both exciting and intimidating. Sharing something so personal with the world felt vulnerable, but the kindness, encouragement, and genuine connection I received gave me confidence. Art has a way of speaking directly to the heart, and seeing my work resonate with others made the risk worthwhile.

Do you come from a creative family?

No, I don’t. My artistic journey was self-discovered. That’s why it feels so personal to me everything I have achieved is the result of my own persistence and love for art.

How do you decide what to paint? Where do you turn for creative inspiration?

My inspiration often comes from the world around me, especially sunsets, which remind me that endings can be beautiful too. I’m also inspired by emotions, cultural influences, and personal experiences. Sometimes I plan a piece carefully, but other times I let the colours and brushstrokes guide me, allowing the painting to unfold in unexpected ways.

If you were a flower or plant, what would you be?

I’d be a tulip – elegant, graceful, and a reminder that simplicity can be deeply beautiful.

What’s your favourite day of the week?

Friday – it feels like a celebration of the week’s achievements and a doorway to more creative time.

Do you have any tips for how to improve at art?

Practice regularly, be open to experimenting, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they're part of the learning process. Most importantly, avoid comparing your work to others. Your unique style and voice are your greatest strengths. And always create from the heart, not just to follow trends.

Suaima’s self-led journey to creativity is inspiring. Whether you come from a creative family or not, you can discover your inner artist at any time. You can see more of @the_bunt_palette by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured.

We’d love to hear about your art journeys! Use #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook to share your creations with us.

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