Art has never been a common career choice in Pakistan. However, there are souls that push through the barriers, and Vivek Chohan is one of them.
The young artist from Rahim Yar Khan is carving his own path. Depicting inequality, poverty, culture, and rural life in his work, he aims to make a difference through art. During a candid interview, Chohan shared his journey from books to spices and finally to art material, as well as his inspirations, struggles, and future aspirations.
When did you start taking art seriously?
"I have always been passionate about art. From childhood, I loved drawing individual characters and telling stories through my work. My work represents society as a whole. I love reading books related to art and have explored different mediums, but my signature style is pencil drawing. That is the reason I focus on intricate details, especially in large pieces. I don’t believe in artistic boundaries.”
He said that he took a nine-month Fine Arts course at AM Studio, Lahore, after completing his intermediate degree. “I also hold a diploma in culinary arts and have worked part-time as a chef in various restaurants. I was good at math and biology, but I chose art because it gives me freedom.” It has been two years since he started his professional journey, and honed his abilities at AM Studio under Sir Ahmad Mumtaz and then at the Alhamra Art Council. “That training shaped my artistic vision and refined my skills," he said.
What do you want to express through your work?
"My work is focused on various themes like inequality, poverty, culture, and rural life. I want to create new avenues for society. My art is my way of turning darkness into light, negativity into positivity. Now, I dream of building my own studio where I can help beginners improve their skills and find global platforms to showcase their talent."
Which artists inspire you?
"I admire Van Gogh, Michelangelo, Salvador Dalí, and Sadequain. But since I specialize in pencil drawing, I am particularly inspired by Jono Dry from South Africa and Dylan from Australia," he said, adding that they had greatly influenced his artistic growth.
What does painting mean to you?
"Painting brings me immense joy and inner strength. Turning a blank canvas into something vibrant and meaningful is both therapeutic and deeply fulfilling,” he said. Chohan explained that artists usually enter a state of flow where they are fully immersed in our work, free from distractions. “This meditative experience is incredibly rewarding. Seeing emotions and ideas take shape on canvas gives a sense of pride and accomplishment.”
He said that painting also allows for self-expression beyond words. Colors, textures, and compositions help convey emotions that may be difficult to articulate, he added. “It is more than a skill — itis an experience. The colors, textures, and even the scent of paint make it immersive. It is my way of expressing what words cannot."
What challenges did you face in the beginning?
"My biggest challenge was convincing my parents. They did not know much about art, and I was just starting out. Financially, it was tough. There is little scope for art in Pakistan. I got painting orders, but many customers refused to pay. The only thing they had to offer was appreciation, and I settled for it.”
He said that social media has now come as a game-changer. “Artists used to struggle to get their work into galleries, but now they can showcase their work online,” he said. He also said that despite intense competition, senior artists are more open to supporting newcomers, which is encouraging. “At first, I tried getting a job at art studios, but they refused. Some only offered accommodation instead of payment. But I didn’t give up."
What is next for you?
"I want to study further in an art university in Pakistan. I want to improve the art industry and encourage young artists to pursue their passion,” Chohan said. “Our society needs more talent. We need to set new benchmarks for the next generation. Art has the power to bring change, and that is what I want to do – inspire, educate and make a difference."
