A close look at Faraz Arif Ansari's work reveals that they always place a great emphasis on visual storytelling. The filmmaker and director of the critically-acclaimed 2021 release Sheer Qorma says, "I have detailed notes about costumes, hair, make-up, and sometimes even the lipstick and the nail paint shade." As a non-binary filmmaker (their preferred pronouns are they/them) who loves to tell stories of the LGBTQIA+ community, the influence of beauty is an integral part of their filmmaking. In a tête-à-tête, the young storyteller sheds light on how beauty influences the visuals of their art.
ELLE: WHAT DOES BEAUTY MEAN TO YOU?
FARAZ ARIF ANSARI (FAA): I feel beauty, like love and happiness, isn't external; it is deeply internal. It is about the radiance one finds when at peace with their identity. My sexuality and gender identity are a part of the celebration of who I am. I feel that to be visible by being authentic is a thing of beauty and courage. As queer folks, we have been denied existence, presence and visibility for generations. Hence, every day for me is an opportunity to reclaim spaces where generations of queer folks have struggled.
ELLE: HOW DO YOU USE BEAUTY AS A TOOL TO TELL YOUR STORIES?
FAA: I am a visual writer, and as a director, I make sure every visual speaks more than any dialogue ever could. Given the intersections of sexuality, faith, gender identities, nationalities, and languages in Sheer Qorma, I wanted the visuals to always have an inherent sense of beauty. From the right colour of red for the Rooh Afza sharbat at the Eid spread to the crystal cutlery, the namaaz rugs to the lace on the namaaz dupattas, the right colour of blush and gloss, to the designs of henna on the hands, every detail was researched and executed to perfection.
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Elle India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Elle India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Indu Antony And The Gentle Art Of Feminism
In an unfiltered conversation with Akshaya Pillai, the multidisciplinary artist lays out a manifesto for a creative life
Taapsee Pannu: A True Original
The actor in conversation with Ainee Nizami Ahmedi on the roles that shape her on & off screen
Canvas Chronicles
The rise of art-cations is elevating conventional vacations into a therapeutic medium of catharsis and transformation for the soul, finds Hasina Jeelani
A FEAST For The EYES
What goes into making a dish that looks like a masterpiece? Notable chefs take Isha Mayer through the art of plating
Yala's Hidden Gem
Zoha Castelino visits the Hilton Yala Resort, where elegance meets nature
The New Wave
Barry Rodgers on the artists to have on your radar, as recommended by gallerists
Tracing Tattoo Trails
Sakshi Rawte on the developing relationship between crossing continents and lines of ink
Sculpted In Time
2022 Venice Biennale's youngest artist, Niyamat Mehta, takes Geetika Sachdev through her art journey
Crafting His Narrative
Yuvraj Menda in conversation with Ipsita Kaul on his much-talked-about debut and his enduring love for Home Alone
Can't Stop Blushin'
This cult-favourite product has taken over our beauty shelves, and we're not complaining, reports Urmi Dande