New kid on the block: ‘Studio Seven’ opens doors to art enthusiasts

Art space to become one-stop solution for all creative people

KARACHI: A new art space, 'Studio Seven', has sprung up to promote the growing market of art in the city.

Located on E-Street in Clifton, the studio is sandwiched between eateries and designer clothes' shops. It also offers architectural help and home décor options. "[We hope to make it a] one-stop solution to all your dreams," said the gallery's director, Abdul Jabbar Gull.

Comprising a seven-member team, the studio opened its door in the second week of November this year, said Gull, adding that it has a sister branch in Dubai.

‘Landscape of Khanaspur’ by Ghulam Mustafa

Talking about the gallery, Gull said "Our policy is not to foster any prejudices or biases against anyone. We will allow all talented people to showcase their collections [at the gallery]."

Currently, the gallery is hosting an exhibition, titled 'Signature II', showcasing the works of 20 eminent artists in Pakistan, including Amin Gulgee, Naheed Raza, Mughees Riaz, Meher Afroz, Roohi Ahmed, Shahid Rassam, Ghulam Mustafa, RM Naeem, Muhammad Zeeshan and Waseem Ahmed.

‘Homage to Van Gogh’ by Ghalib Baqar

‘Old Karachi series (Empress market)’ by Ather Jamal

"Mixed works by the artist community of Pakistan have been projected at the gallery," said Gull. "You will find abstracts, figurative, non-figurative and landscape in this collection."

Our mantra remains, 'To respect our seniors and create our own heroes', he remarked.

‘Algorithm IV’ by Amin Gulgee.

Sharing future plans, Gull said that they plan to also host travelling shows. "The art gallery in Karachi will cater to local artists while the one in Dubai will cater to international artists," he shared. "We also plan to have travelling shows in the very near future."

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th, 2016.