“Art allows me to express my feelings and when people see the final outcome and recognise my work, it makes me happy,” the 29-year-old shared with FMT Lifestyle.
Diagnosed with type 3 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) as a toddler, Ainaa could have easily been overwhelmed by her condition. Instead, she has transformed her artistic expression into a lively celebration of creativity and perseverance.
“My condition has never stopped me although it’s with me every day. My life’s philosophy has always been to go with the flow and stay positive,” said Ainaa.
“Even if I don’t feel like painting or I can’t, then I just rest. I think about what the next artwork is that I should paint. I don’t think it has to stop me.”
The ever-bubbly Ainaa, who graduated from KDU International College with a degree in graphic design, often incorporates the impasto technique, which allows her to create textured, 3D effects. This style not only accommodates her physical abilities but has also become a defining feature of her art.
“Impasto allows me to create something that looks alive. It’s something you can touch and feel, which is important to me,” she explained.
However, living with SMA has had a profound impact on the way she creates her art. The condition affects her motor skills, making it difficult for her to use conventional tools like heavy paintbrushes.
“I prefer using a palette knife, especially the plastic ones, because they’re lighter and easier for me to control. The brush is too heavy for me, and my hands tremble sometimes,” she shared.
One of her most significant pieces is her “SMA” series, which she exhibited in 2018. The series focused on the brain, spine, and lungs – the three critical areas affected by SMA. “That series is very close to my heart because it represents me and my experience living with SMA.”
A defining moment in Ainaa’s career came when she unknowingly prepared for her first solo exhibition last year.
“My friend asked me to prepare about 20 paintings, and I thought it was for a group show. It wasn’t until everything was ready and I went to the gallery that I realised it was my solo exhibition!”
The exhibition, titled “Chonteng by Ainaa” was held at a resort in Janda Baik, Pahang, and marked a milestone in her career.
Interestingly, “Chonteng by Ainaa” is also the name of her brand, which she conceptualised during her final semester in college. Through this venture, she takes on commissioned works.
Ainaa’s love for the arts was cultivated from childhood, thanks to her maternal grandfather and mother, both of whom had a penchant for creativity.
She fondly recalled engaging in various arts and craft projects with her mother, like painting photo frames and creating scrapbooks.
During her secondary school days, she studied art outside of school, even when the facilities were not easily accessible. Her parents supported her by physically carrying her up and down stairs to art tuition centres.
“Until today, my parents are my biggest supporters and cheerleaders. I’m so thankful for them,” she said.
Looking ahead, Ainaa dreams of opening an art café, a space for art lovers to chill and for parents to enjoy a cuppa while their kids are engaged in arts and craft activities.
“Don’t be afraid to try something that you like. Even if people say that you can’t do it, prove them wrong. You know what you are capable of because you know yourself better,” Ainaa concluded.
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