Born in 1989 in Quetta, Baluchistan, I grew up in a home deeply rooted in literature and art. My father, an Associate Professor of English Literature, fostered a love for storytelling and visual expression in me and my brothers. Evenings were often spent discussing literature and painting, which inspired me to replicate illustrations from storybooks and compete in art contests throughout my school years. Although I initially pursued a degree in Economics, my passion for art remained strong. A turning point came when I secured the top position in the entrance test for the prestigious National College of Arts (NCA), Lahore, where I later graduated with First Division and Honours. My thesis was well received, and I began exhibiting nationally and internationally, often alongside my elder brother. I have since participated in major art shows, including the Venice Art Biennale and the renowned Art Renewal Center (ARC) Salons, USA. In the 15th ARC Salon, two of my paintings were finalists out of 4,000 submissions from 83 countries, and were published in the ARC Salon book — 21st century’s best representational works, produced 3 years prior to its publication. I received an “Honorable Mention” in the 16th ARC Salon, with the winning piece selected for NASA’s Lunar Codex Project, to be archived on the Moon in perpetuity — the POLARIS and NOVA Collections. My artwork, Fishman from the 17th ARC Salon, was also individually curated for it to be included in the Nova Collection.