Best foot forward - Armless Pakistani painter creates stunning works with her toes

"Pakistani artist Zahra Abbas has turned her personal challenges into artistic expression, painting vibrant works with her feet after losing both arms. Footage filmed on Saturday in her hometown of Gilgit, northern Pakistan, shows Abbas skilfully holding brushes and paint bottles with her feet, creating detailed artwork. Other shots show her using electronic devices and eating independently, as visitors tour her studio and purchase her paintings. “Initially, I had to face people’s negative attitudes and all their taunts. When I got admission to the Hunar Foundation, I learned feet art, henna designing, cooking, and other skills as well,” Abbas said. With support from the non-profit Hunar Foundation, Abbas has dedicated herself to promoting art and inclusion, founding 'Without Hands GB Talent', an initiative designed to empower people living with disabilities. “My objective is to help disabled persons, disabled girls like me, you know, whatever they achieve in their life, but they face problems to marry like normal people, so I help them by teaching these skills to make them independent, that’s my aim for the future,” she explained. Zahra’s determination and talent have earned recognition from local authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan, who have pledged support for her work. Through her initiative and continued collaboration with the Hunar Foundation, she aims to create platforms that enable people with disabilities to develop skills, independence and confidence."