'Passion makes me pick up my paintbrushes after a tiring day'

Banker and artist Marriam Ayaz on juggling commitments while keeping her creative side alive

Describe your work in a sentence.
A banker by profession but an artist by passion, I refer to my artwork as 'the mystic whirls'.

What inspires the art you create?
The Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncu?i said, "Things are not difficult to make. What is difficult is putting ourselves in the state of mind to make them." Most of my paintings are inspired by the verses of the famous 13th-century poet and scholar Rumi. All my paintings have bold colours, which I purposely use to bring Rumi's quotes to life by painting them on canvas.

What's it like balancing a full-time job along with a passion for art?
It's very challenging to juggle a full-time job with family time - and still try to make time to paint. But no matter how tiring it gets, I somehow find the energy to pick up my paintbrushes, which can only come from the passion I have for art. My son and daughter, who are six and four years old, love to draw and paint, so we all look forward to the weekend when we can get our canvases and colours out and just paint.

The biggest learning point or experience in your life.
Being a mother of two amazing children. They are my true inspiration and joy. No matter how challenging the day gets, just being with them and spending time with them is the best thing in life.

What advice would you give your younger self, if you could?
I have a suspicion my younger self wouldn't listen to me, but if I could turn back the clock, I would tell myself to grow up but never grow old.

The number one item on your wish list.
All I want is everything.

Favorite fictional character?
Elsa from Frozen. She's the modern-day Cinderella: her story is all about conquering fears, embracing who you are, and taking charge. We all grow up a little scared and unsure of our potential, but she shows us how to own what makes us special and build an entire kingdom using that power. Not to mention, she's my daughter's favourite.
 
The best thing you've ever bought yourself and why?
Prints of my children's hands, feet and thumbs on silver coins when they were born. They are a treasure and I love them!

A superpower you wish you had?
To be able to read minds would be awesome.

If you were head of your country, what is the first thing you'd do?
Provide free education for all. I believe education is a basic need in my country right now and if I could, I would do whatever it takes to get all the children in my country to attend school.
- Staff reporter