The beauty of asymmetry

A Q Arif brings out the glories of nature and the magic of architecture at Tanzara Art Gallery.

ISLAMABAD:

The constant demise of Moghal tradition can be witnessed in A Q Arif’s latest wind-swept collection at Tanzara Art Gallery.

Using a limited colour palate, Arif works with different tones of the same colour to achieve a highly integrated look. The use of Moghal architecture and Islamic calligraphy infused in the landscape adds mystery and depth to the work.

His latest collection works with three different styles that can be easily categorised: the natural landscape, architectural landscape and the most elaborate pieces including figurines and elephants immersed within the architectural landscape.

“I paint the glories of nature and the magnificence of God,” said Arif, adding, “Beauty lies not only in vibrant colours and pretty things like flowers and angelic creatures; it also lies in the hands of man and his heart.”

The dreamy, half-imagined pieces have a glassy tinge to them that not only create reflections but also give some of his work a three-dimensional character. The Karachi-based artist has evolved immensely since his move to Lahore. The depiction of the lush landscape of Moghal architecture engrossed within the walls of Old Lahore, popularly known as the Walled City, takes the viewer into a meditative, almost trance-like state.

The walled city of Lahore is in itself an enormous influence in the works of many artists; but the beauty that Arif sees in the crooked lines of the bricks and the haphazard towering facades these buildings create is fresh and aesthetic.

The untouched fantasy Arif creates in his work is dreamlike and the infusion of calligraphy adds the extra oomph and character to the paintings. With the branches in some landscapes twisting themselves into letters to form “Allah” and a burqa-clad woman sneaking off into the background of a building, the created mystery makes it seem as if the painting’s characters are playing hide and seek with the viewer.

The windswept effect adds to the lost remnants of our history, while the fading calligraphy emphasises the distortion of our languages and roots. More so than anything else, Arif’s work can be interpreted in many ways. However, what makes his work unreal is the aesthetic appeal and beauty the artist works with.

While the grid structure of the work appealed to many, the Monet-esque landscapes, though skilfully done, looked a tad artificial. Priced between Rs. 18,000-165,000, Arif has hit the Islamabad market with style.



Published in The Express Tribune, April 8^th, 2011.