Representational image. PHOTO: AFP
Masih Sindhu, a renowned Pakistani calligrapher and an acclaimed expert of sculpture, says that the government must do something for the welfare and wellbeing of artists, craftsmen and painters to ensure a bright future for arts and crafts in the country.
“Young students are taking a keen interest in drawing and painting these days and are looking towards art as a full-time career,” Sindhu says. “It is, therefore, imperative to promote art in the country so that talent is not wasted.”
Speaking to The Express Tribune about his artistic journey, Sindhu – who is a Christian by faith – explains that he is passionate about the calligraphy of both Islamic and Biblical scriptures.
Apart from calligraphic art, he also has a great aptitude for sculptures.
“As a kid, I dreamed of becoming a painter,” Sindhu recalls, “However, there were ups and downs in my life because my mother passed away when I was very young – an event that left me devastated and depressed for a long time.”
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Even though it was very hard for him, he coped with his depression through drawing. As his home was situated near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Sindhu used to watch night matches from his rooftop and draw sketches of the players using a pencil.
“Seeing my talent and passion for drawing, my father approached prominent calligrapher and painter, Yusuf Sajjad, and convinced him to take me as a student,” he explains. “Once I started learning art and calligraphy, there was no looking back for me. It’s been 22 years since I joined the field and I am very proud of my career choice.”
Sindhu adds that he is immensely grateful to his mentor Sajjad who played a very important role in fine-tuning his passion and skills. He also thanks his father for recognising his talent and supporting him throughout his career.
Owing to his artistic talent, Sindhu was given the opportunity to prepare the sculptures of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal for the Senate Museum.
“When I was assigned the task, I couldn’t sleep the whole night. I knew the challenging demands of the task, so before preparing the sculptures, I gathered all information related to the figures so that no aspect of their personalities was ignored. I poured my heart and soul into my work,” Sindhu says.
His hard work did not go unnoticed, as former senate chairman Raza Rabbani lauded his artistic work.
“I do not have any desire for any national award but I believe that I would get one if I deserve it. My work speaks for itself and the love and acknowledgement I receive from people are my awards.”
Sindhu’s calligraphic artwork and paintings are showcased in exhibitions every other day. Although he takes pride in his self-made status as an artist, he is grateful to his wife, Naila, who has always stood by his side for support.
“My wife has set up an art gallery for me in Bahria Town, Islamabad, where young students receive art education and training. But rather than making money through the venture, I am more concerned about the interest and passion of my students,” he says.
“I make sure to help them develop and polish their talent because the young painters and sculptors of today will be a sign of an enlightened Pakistan tomorrow.”
Published in The Express Tribune, August 8th, 2019.
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