ISLAMABAD, Apr 7 (APP):Islamabad is seeing rising demand for resin art as handcrafted décor becomes a preferred choice for living and work spaces.
Once considered a niche craft, resin art has rapidly evolved into a mainstream creative industry, attracting both buyers and aspiring artists in large numbers.
Art studios and small businesses across the city report a steady rise in orders for resin-based products — from decorative items and wall art to jewelry, keychains, and furniture.
The appeal lies in the medium’s versatility, glossy finish, and its ability to preserve objects such as flowers, photographs, and personal mementos in crystal-clear resin.
Zahida Aftab, a local art instructor residing in Barakahu, who also runs a vocational training centre in the area, shared insights into the growing interest in resin art and oil painting, while highlighting the financial and technical challenges associated with these creative fields.
In an interview with APP, she explained that resin art, although visually appealing, is not easily affordable for everyone. She noted that basic resin pieces can start from around Rs. 3,000, while other materials used in the process are also expensive. Due to the high cost and the precision required, even a minor error in measurement can result in the entire piece being wasted.
She added that while learning resin art is not particularly difficult and can be accomplished within 10 to 15 days or a few classes, sustaining it as a long-term practice is more challenging. “It is not the learning, but maintaining the work that is difficult,” she remarked, emphasizing that consistency, resources, and discipline are key factors.
Discussing her teaching activities, Zahida Aftab said she provides training in various art forms, including painting and resin work. However, she noted that taking custom orders is not currently her focus, as she is primarily dedicated to teaching students.
She further highlighted that oil painting is also an expensive medium, with costly materials such as canvas, oil paints, and brushes. While some individuals can afford these supplies, many learners—especially young students—struggle to continue due to financial constraints, despite initially pursuing it out of passion.
She also pointed out the growing trend of working on small canvases, particularly in oil painting. According to her, completing a single painting can take one to several weeks, as artists often work on multiple pieces simultaneously to allow adequate drying time between layers.
Concluding her remarks, she reiterated that while art remains accessible as a skill, pursuing it professionally requires both financial investment and sustained effort, which can be challenging under current economic conditions.
Talking to APP, Sara, a resin artist running a full-time online business, said she started resin art as a hobby during the pandemic. Over time, she developed a deep passion for it and became a perfectionist in her craft. She added that the response she has received has been overwhelming. “People love to buy unique, personalized items that reflect their personality, and resin art offers endless possibilities,” she said.
Social media platforms have played a pivotal role in boosting the popularity of resin art. Artists showcase their creative processes through short videos and tutorials, attracting audiences and potential customers. Many entrepreneurs have leveraged these platforms to market their products, leading to increased visibility and sales.
The trend is also being driven by a growing culture of gifting customized items. Consumers are increasingly opting for personalized resin pieces for occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and corporate events. This shift has opened up new opportunities for artists to cater to a diverse clientele.
Workshops and training sessions on resin art are also gaining traction in the capital. Art schools and independent instructors are offering courses for beginners, further fueling interest in the craft. Participants, especially young adults and homemakers, view resin art as both a creative outlet and a potential source of income.
However, industry insiders note that this rapid growth comes with challenges. The cost of high-quality resin materials has increased, and concerns about safety and proper handling of chemicals remain significant. Experts emphasize the need for adequate ventilation, protective gear, and responsible disposal practices.
Despite these challenges, the future of resin art in the capital appears bright. With increasing consumer interest and a thriving community of artists, the craft is set to become a significant segment of the city’s creative economy. As demand continues to rise, resin art is no longer just a trend—it is shaping up to be a lasting artistic movement in the capital.
