Art & Culture
A Sense of Belonging: Faiqa Uppal’s Story of Culture, Connection and Sisterhood; Through Brushstrokes

By Nadeem Mirza
At the heart of the newly formed Midlands International Artists Collective (MIAC) is a celebration of diversity, identity, memory, and emotional landscapes.
Opened on 21st May at Solihull’s Courtyard Gallery, Belongings brings together 20 diverse artists exploring heritage, home, and the many ways we carry our histories with us. For Faiqa Uppal, who divides her time between the UK and Pakistan, belonging is not confined to a single place but flows through her art, rooted in culture and spirit.

“I think belonging is a reflection of root, culture and spiritual connection,” she says. “My paint and brushes are my belongings, and I make a spiritual connection with my subjects through these.”
Her exhibited work, “Music Melody”, pays homage to the intricate visual tradition of Mughal miniatures. With vivid, joyful brushwork, Faiqa captures a tender moment between sisters—a motif drawn from memories of her own family in Pakistan. It is a celebration of sisterhood, memory, and music, translated into colour and form. In this way, the painting becomes more than an artwork; it is a living archive of longing, joy, and connection across borders.
Faiqa’s piece joins a vibrant and varied body of work that includes painting, photography, textiles and ceramics—all reflecting stories of migration, layered identities, and what it means to belong in a multicultural world. From the floral-infused domestic spaces of Fiona Carr to the textile narratives of Daya Bhatti, Belongings resists a single definition of home, opting instead to weave together complex, overlapping stories.


Curated by Birmingham-based art historian Ruth Millington, the exhibition marks the culmination of the Get Gallery Ready bootcamp, a pioneering programme at Solihull College & University Centre. The project was designed to support local artists in finding their voice—and a gallery platform—in a supportive, collaborative environment.
That spirit of connection is palpable. As one of the founding artists of MIAC, Faiqa has found not just a place to exhibit, but a community. Her work stands as a bridge between continents, a lyrical expression of what it means to carry one’s heritage in one hand and a paintbrush in the other.


Alongside Faiqa Uppal, the exhibition features works by:
Alice Alena Adamkova, Prashant Kansara, Daya Bhatti, Sarmite Lasmane, Hasret Brown, Irina Mackie, Leticia Campos, Anisa Mosaiebiniya, Fiona Carr, Sandra Palmer, Sylwia Ciszewska-Peciak, Brian Prangle, EDITORIAT, Sophie Slade, Robbie Jeffcott, Natasha Taheem, Joanna Grochot, Tara Harris and Suminder Virk.
‘Belongings’ runs from 21 May 2025 at The Courtyard Gallery, Solihull.
For more about the artists and MIAC, visit Solihull College’s website.
Related Topics:#Art #culture# Featured# Nadeem Mirza #Pakistan #Politics #Uppal’s Story #FAIQAZ #Faiqa’s Story
Art & Culture
Buzz Off Telephone: A Satirical Reflection on Modern Chaos and Connection by Zeenat Iqbal Hakimjee from Harmony

Be hold and me apprise
Of the current inflation and rise
In atta prices and the general
And of course dowries too
Acquaint you I shall with the
So called water and loo
Escapism with my telephone
From the hullabaloo
Hi, Hullo, how do you do?
Hadn’t we just met
Before an hour or two
Serves me right
If it was hate at first sight,
Out a sight, sorry upright, my telephone
Bill read
Not in units, tens but in hundreds
Art & Culture
Bridging Cultures and Continents: Inside Umedjon Saidov’s DITE-2025 Triumph

Step into the vibrant world of global tourism with Umedjon Saidov, National Expert in Tourism Development and General Director of Somon Travel LLC, whose passion has unveiled Tajikistan’s hidden gems to the world. From his roots as a scholar of international relations to masterminding the Dushanbe International Tourism Exhibition (DITE-2025), held September 18–20, Saidov has transformed Tajikistan’s majestic Pamir peaks and lively Dushanbe markets into must-visit destinations of hospitality and heritage. In this exclusive The Light Newspaper interview, he invites you to explore the dreams, challenges, and triumphs that made DITE-2025 a global sensation, uniting 200 companies from 20 countries and sparking partnerships that promise adventure and opportunity.

“My love for Tajikistan drove me to connect its beauty with the world,” Saidov shares. His journey—from diplomatic posts and “Tourist Police” to founding travel companies—culminated in DITE-2025, a dazzling showcase born from relentless dedication. Having represented Tajikistan at global events like ITB Berlin and WTM London, he crafted DITE as a stage for airlines, artisans, and hoteliers to highlight Tajikistan’s untapped potential, inviting travelers and investors to discover its charm.

The challenge of uniting global hotel chains, local restaurants, and tour operators was no small feat, but Saidov’s collaborative approach turned diversity into strength. “We built trust through open dialogue, ensuring every voice was heard,” he says. This unity transformed DITE into a cultural and commercial triumph, where vibrant displays of music, crafts, and cuisine met investment forums and B2B sessions, sparking deals that elevate Tajikistan’s tourism.

A standout moment came when Saidov stepped in to moderate a critical panel after a last-minute cancellation, seamlessly connecting airlines and tourism boards with Tajikistan’s opportunities. His quick thinking turned a challenge into a highlight, showcasing his leadership and passion. “DITE-2025 was more than an event—it was a bridge to the world,” he reflects.

Looking ahead, Saidov envisions DITE as Central Asia’s premier tourism platform, with regional expansions and digital campaigns to keep Tajikistan in the spotlight year-round. His advice to aspiring professionals? “Combine passion with perseverance. Believe in your country’s potential, and doors will open.”

The magic of DITE-2025 lies in its mutual discoveries—international guests enchanted by Tajikistan’s hospitality and local businesses embracing their global potential. “This is just the beginning,” Saidov says. “Join us to explore Tajikistan’s wonders, from the Pamirs to Dushanbe’s vibrant markets. Let’s create unforgettable journeys together!”
Art & Culture
Live and Let Live: A Poetic Reflection on Choice and Tolerance by Zeenat Iqbal Hakimjee from Harmony

You took her out to the
Cosy restaurant for dinner,
I was vociferous in-my appeal,
For you as sinner.
Social taboos should never erect
A wall between us,
Otherwise our relationship
Will take a turn for the disastrous,
My catty instincts
Were aroused by your-
Blast of voice
If only I could have told myself
Never mind, its his choice.
The norm of the day is
Follow a strict diet
A pound here or there will not
A tremendous impact
Make on the weight
Live and let live, Take and learn to give.
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