Saima’s hand embroideries are inspired by Indian folk art, especially the Phulkari embroideries of Punjab, India.

Rich in colour and steeped in stories, her stitched artworks combine heritage, craft and personal narratives with a sense of play and whimsy.

Saima's artistic career began in 2018 when she stitched the experience of being a parent/carer to her non verbal, autistic daughter. This exploration took the form of a 2019 exhibition ‘Autism: This is Me’ at Kala Sangam, Bradford.

Her work no longer explores these themes directly, instead transforming her lived experiences into art that offers joy, connection and a sense of wonder.

Saima’s work has been featured in Embroidery Magazine, The Colourist and she has created collections for The Shop Floor Project, fabric for The Monkeay Puzzle Tree and sells her art on Glassette and The Roost.

She also teaches and gives talks to

community and specialist groups.

Saima has delivered online workshops for Selvedge magazine, The Stitch Club and Making Zen.