I am primarily a watercolourist but also work in other media. My inspiration is nature — often imagined. I aim to convey the feeling of a bird as it sits in my hand, the fur of a cheetah that I once petted through a wire fence, the coarse texture of an elephant's trunk.
My work is repetitive. I paint the same or similar images again and again. I seldom strive for perfection or accuracy, but try to capture a feeling, a light or an atmosphere — testing colours and textures to see how far and in which directions I can push the mood of a painting.
I grew up in the United Kingdom with Norwegian and Indian parents, moved to Sweden in the 1980s, and have painted in Asia, Europe and Central America. I spend much of the year in Umbria, Italy, painting in solitude near Monte Santa Maria Tiberina.
These paintings have found homes in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Canada, USA, Australia and the UK.
30+ originals in private collections worldwide
Interested in commissioning a similar work? Commission a painting →
I paint landscapes — real places, remembered places, and imagined ones. A commission is an opportunity to have a place that matters to you painted in watercolour. A family cabin. A view you miss. A coast you return to in your mind.
Yes. All prices include shipping to Sweden and most of Europe. For international shipping outside Europe, please get in touch and I will arrange a quote.
Most paintings are sold framed. Some are available unframed — the listing will specify. If you are unsure, just ask.
Yes. If you are in Stockholm, collection in person is welcome. Contact me and we will arrange a convenient time.
Yes. Every painting is a unique, hand-painted original signed by Zakia Khan. No prints or reproductions are sold on this site.
Yes — landscape commissions are accepted. From 4 000 kr. See the commission section →
Original art changes the atmosphere of a space in a way that no print can. Each painting carries the time, light and intention of the moment it was made.
Browse available paintings →All paintings shown are originals available to purchase. Payment by SumUp (secure card) or Swish. I also take commissions — get in touch and we'll talk through what's possible.
Reserve a place on a Labarotta retreat in Umbria. €300 deposit, fully refundable until 30 days before.
