From Singapore to Zurich: The Artistic Journey of Ona Khan

Having loved art since childhood, Singaporean-born, Zurich-based Rosnah Khan – known artistically as Ona Khan – never imagined she would one day become an artist herself. Inspired by the world around her, she eventually picked up a paintbrush and discovered a talent many later believed was passed down from her late father. She has held several exhibitions showcasing her art, among them at English Center Benglen as well as a boutique in Pontresina. Working with oil on canvas and painting with her fingers, she creates abstract pieces filled with emotional depth, each one reflecting a chapter of her healing journey. Beyond painting, Khan expresses her creativity in many forms: she designs jewelry and accessories, works as a makeup artist and explores fashion with the same intuitive artistry that shapes her paintings. In this interview, she shares how her artistic path first began.

Safar: What sparked your interest in art and painting?
Ona Khan: I liked art from an early age, but my passion for creating truly appeared after a trip to Belgium, where I saw the figurative paintings of a relative of a friend. I was around 20 then, and I couldn’t imagine myself becoming an artist. In 2000, I visited the Picasso Museum in Barcelona and was intrigued by Picasso’s abstract works. During my travels, I also visited galleries in France and Abu Dhabi. I only began creating art when I lost my mom. It was a very difficult period of my life. A friend, who was already painting inspired me to just start. Upon returning to Switzerland, I received a 100×100 cm canvas for my birthday, and that’s when I began painting.

What were some of your first paintings?
During that difficult time, a close friend bought me three large canvases and told me that if I couldn’t express how I felt in words, I should express it through art. That’s what I did. My first works were The Frozen Tree, Autumn and Serenity.

Could you share the experience of your first exhibition?
My first exhibition was at the English Center Benglen, where I displayed all my paintings. Many people took photos with them and even bought pieces. My first painting sold was Forbidden Desire, a portrait of a woman with a veil.

What themes do you like to paint?
I like abstract, portraits and scenery. But it depends on my mood.

What mediums do you use?
I only work with oil and use my fingers. I don’t use brushes.

Could you describe your creative process?
Sometimes I stare at the canvas for hours without knowing what to do; other times, everything flows easily. I love working with colors and letting my imagination guide me. Authenticity is important to me. I paint directly without planning. I apply a lot of color and oil, building texture and letting the canvas dry. Depending on my mood, I may repaint many times.

How would you describe your art? Has your style evolved over the years?
My art focuses on healing and energy, evolving alongside of me. As time passed, I started using a wider range of colors, and my artwork became brighter and happier.

What is your favorite artwork?
I have a few favorites, but Hidden Soul is one of my most meaningful works, reflecting my healing journey. It began as a self-portrait, but one morning during this troubling time, I covered the entire painting in brown. Although the original portrait disappeared, traces of it remained visible. I didn’t want to be seen. I layered dark colors over my face because I wanted to be hidden. As my grief softened and I began to heal, the painting also transformed, shifting into lighter tones until it eventually became completely white. A friend named it Hidden Soul when she realized I was trying to hide myself.

Do you experience creative blocks? How do you deal with them?
When I lack inspiration, I simply don’t paint. Sometimes I push myself to at least lay a foundation, and once I start, the ideas flow. My surroundings inspire me. When I see something interesting, I imagine it on canvas. I can’t paint every day – it depends on my mood – but sometimes I motivate myself to begin.  

Is there a specific time or place you prefer to paint?
No. I can paint anywhere and at anytime – when I’m happy, sad, day or night.

What is the most memorable feedback you have received?
Many people tell me that I underestimate my talent and shouldn’t give it up. My work, especially Hidden Soul, has moved viewers – three men once sat in front of it for half an hour, calling it the best at the exhibition. Others believe my art deserves to be in a gallery.

How do you choose names for your pieces?
Sometimes months pass before I name a piece. Eventually I’ll hear or read a word that perfectly describes the artwork and captures its meaning.

How do you know when a piece is complete?
Some pieces take months or even years. Sometimes I wake up and decide to change everything, depending on my mood. Hidden Soul is a good example – it took many months to finish.

What is the role of art in your life?
I can’t live without my art. Every piece carries hope. Each artwork is part of my healing journey. When I started painting, I was in pain; through painting, I began to heal. My art – whether painting, makeup or jewelry – is my way of contributing to the world.

What is your vision as an artist?
I want to share my work with the world and use it for charity. As art is both my passion and a form of personal healing, I hope to continue exhibiting, showing in galleries and contributing to meaningful causes.