The paintbrush is arguably the best measure of an artist’s emotional state while working, with the intricacies of every brush stroke revealing, little-by-little, what the subtext of a painting actually is.
“Reflect the future is ours”, a group exhibition by Salma Manzoor, Mishaal Rinch and Mubashir Iqbal which opened on Saturday, reflected their feelings through art.
Salma Manzoor, masters from the Punjab University, has used recycled handmade paper in the medium of watercolours. She has a number of frequent elements- a portrait of a woman, division of space, bubbles, flowers which are all layered in subtle soft pastel shades.
Manzoor replicates emotions through her work. A plight of a woman is well thought-out through her work. She has exposed women in distress that have come out stronger. She has integrated miniature with contemporary style using an assortment of materials such as handmade paper which creates a brilliant collection.
Presently in China, Manzoor’s work echoes her personal experience through these pieces.
Mishal Rinch’s work captivates Pakistan’s culture in a distinctive way. “Rickshaws” and “Truck art inspired characters” such as pigeons in acrylic on paper formulate her collection. The use of dark colours makes her work stand out. Presently based in Canada, Rinch’s work is eye-catching and highlights the prosperity of the culture rather well.
Mobashir Iqbal, an emerging Rawalpindi-based artist has used water colours to depict Sufism. Symbolically, he keeps in mind the whirling Dervishes of Konya and a fleet of pigeons that symbolise culture and spirituality. His work is superlative and soothing for the eyes. The use of monochromatic shades in watercolours gives a very dreamlike feel to his pieces. “Splattering details in some of the work is praise-worthy, it’s dreamlike and very relevant to our own culture,” said Nageen Hayat, curator of the Nomad Art Gallery. “We are looking at the youth and how they promote culture. The work shows the richness in our own culture,” she said. The exhibition will continue till April 4.
Wandering Silk
For the second time, Wandering Silk brings its collection to Pakistan. To promote friendship through craftsmanship Wandering Silk items bring a unique style of traditional silk scarves, sofa and bed throws and silk jewellery at the Nomad Art Gallery. The silk and cotton scarves are one of a kind that have been handmade in India from upcycled vintage saris.
Bold combinations and exceptional prints are put together with Kaantha Sitch which is found in scarves used traditionally made in west Bengal on light quilted blankets. The very old craft is now made a permanent feature of the art gallery and is on display.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 24th, 2013.