FICTION, REALITY, AND THE IN-BETWEEN

art exhibition

Art has the beautiful power to blend and bring together different artistic expressions, exploring the intersection of fiction, reality, and the in-between through various mediums and personal narratives.

ArtChowk’s recent group exhibition ‘Fiction, Reality, and the In-between,’ curated by S.M. Raza, showcased the diverse talents of fourteen artists.

The exhibit featured a wide array of mediums and themes, reflecting the rich art of Pakistan. It brought together an eclectic mix of emerging and established artists, each offering unique perspectives and techniques.

The exhibit successfully highlighted the vigorous and evolving nature of contemporary Pakistani art, offering viewers a thought-provoking and visually stimulating experience.

The exhibition’s title aptly encapsulated the diverse approaches and narratives presented by the participating artists.

Lines of Perception

Muzamil Chandio, a Lahore-based visual artist, completed his bachelor’s in Ceramic Design from the National College of Arts, Lahore. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Art and Design Studies at BNU Lahore. Chandio’s work spans drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics, with a distinctive focus on the perception of lines.

His paintings challenge traditional notions of the medium, using lines to create intricate illusions and distortions. This technique pushes viewers to reconsider the power of linear forms in visual art, offering a fresh, thought-provoking perspective.

Of Tradition and Migration

Sajil Kaleem, born in Karachi, brings a background of cultural heritage to her work. Having lived in several countries, her installations draw heavily on her Deccani roots and the tradition of migration that has defined her family’s history.

A graduate of Newcastle University of Fine Art, Sajil’s practice in the North of England has gained recognition across multiple cities such as Newcastle, Hexham, Liverpool, and London. Her installations in this exhibition juxtapose traditional elements with contemporary narratives, creating a dialogue about cultural transmission and identity in the modern world.

Dreams and Reality

Ayesha Chandio graduated from the University of Karachi with a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts. Her work has been featured in ‘Manachi,’ a collaborative book by the British Council of Pakistan and the State Bank Museum.

She has participated in open studios curated by Umaina Khan and often draws inspiration from her dreams, merging them with reality to express her true self. Currently a Project Coordinator at Vasl Artists’ Association, Chandio remains committed to pushing creative boundaries and expanding her artistic horizons.

Escapism and Self-Expression

Yusra Taqi Allawala is a visual artist based in Karachi. She completed her BFA from The Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture, earning distinction for her final academic research paper.

Her work has been exhibited in numerous group shows, including those at Koel Gallery, the World Bank in Islamabad, T2F Faraar Gallery, Full Circle Gallery, Anna Molka Gallery, Haam Gallery, and Al-Hamra Art Gallery. Currently a faculty member at Academia Civitas, Taqi’s art explores themes of escapism and self-expression, offering a deep psychological insight into these concepts.

Printmaking and Multi-Disciplinary Art

Urooj Faheem is a multi-disciplinary artist and educator based in Karachi. She graduated from the Karachi School of Art with a major in Printmaking.

Since then, she has exhibited her work in various exhibitions, conducted workshops, and participated in art competitions. Faheem’s work often reflects her dual role as an artist and educator, blending traditional printmaking techniques with contemporary themes and approaches.

Legacy of Stone Craft

Aqib Faiz’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy of stone carving and inlay work. His grandfather migrated from Rajasthan, India, and trained as a stone carver, working with the renowned artist Amin Gulgee.

Aqib’s father, Faiz Muhammad, also assisted Gulgee and later trained Aqib in this traditional craft. Aqib further honed his skills under the tutelage of Farrukh Shahab, eventually joining his studio as an assistant. His work combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques, reflecting a rich artistic heritage.

Identity and Nostalgia through Buckram

Maham Mirza Maqsood graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Karachi. Her artistic practice revolves around the intricate art form of buckram, a technique involving the creation of two- and three-dimensional drawings using stiff fabric.

Her work explores themes of personal identity and nostalgia, with each piece meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of the past influencing the present.

Freedom and Observation

Sanober, who graduated in Fine Arts from the Karachi School of Art, revolves her work around concepts and ideas, aiming to depict freedom and the art of letting go.

She believes that an artist should deliver awareness of concepts and ideas through various perspectives, inviting viewers to see and observe everything from beyond conventional boundaries.

The Emotional Impact of Nature

Naira Ather is a self-taught artist whose work primarily focuses on acrylic paintings of sunsets seen from various frames and locations.

Her interest lies in exploring the emotional and psychological effects of nature on the human brain, with each piece capturing the profound impact of natural beauty on the psyche.

Experimenting with Paints

Maham Shahab, a graphic designer and artist, has always been fascinated by the talent of artists like Sadequain and watercolour artist Gerry Tucker.

Her work involves experimenting with various paints, including watercolours, acrylics, and oils, to capture the same kind of emotion and beauty. Shahab’s art reflects her mission to express what she sees and feels through diverse mediums.

Exploring Human Behaviour

Huba Nisar is a Karachi-based contemporary artist captivated by the complexities of human behaviour and decision-making. Her work encompasses painting, sculpture, digital art, and performance, focusing on the contradictions and hypocrisies that arise in different contexts.

Nisar’s art delves into both the darker aspects of self-deception and societal facades, as well as the more hopeful elements of empathy and resilience. Her work challenges viewers to confront ethical dissonance while celebrating human potential for growth and positive change.

Spirituality and Conceptual Art

Mahwish Khan, a Karachi-based visual artist, graduated with distinction in Fine Art from the University of Karachi’s Department of Visual Studies.

Her conceptual art involves interesting mathematical calculations and explores spirituality and the divine connection through the use of nuqta (dot) compositions.

Khan’s work reflects a profound spiritual narrative, with each piece intricately designed to convey her connection with the Almighty.

The Transformative Nature of Gold Foil

Behram Farooqui, a Karachi-based artist, completed his Bachelor in Fine Arts from the University of Karachi’s Department of Visual Studies.

His multidisciplinary practice includes gold foil, textile, installation, and miniature painting. Farooqui’s fascination with the transformative nature of gold foil is at the core of his artistic practice.

He has exhibited his works in numerous group shows and won the prestigious Sadequain Award for Painting.

Modern Art and Composition

Syed Sajjad Uddin, known as Sajjad Artwala, is a Karachi-based visual artist and designer. He studied Industrial Design at the Department of Visual Studies, University of Karachi. Sajjad began practicing professionally during the pandemic, focusing on modern art elements and compositions to depict subtle yet profound themes in his paintings and artworks.

His work has been featured in various exhibitions and charity shows, gaining recognition for its unique blend of contemporary design and artistic expression.