The founder of modern art in Pakistan

To

The Principal

Prof Shakir Ali

National College of Arts, Lahore

Dear Sir, Hope this finds you well. I admit that I needed to be born at least 25 years earlier, than my actual date of birth, to address you in this manner. I do this out of respect and to cherish my association with the institution where you served as the first Pakistani Principal. A few weeks ago, I wrote to Mrs Anna Molka Ahmed, across the road. Many have appreciated my acknowledgment of her as an art educationist aka "the gori mem sahib with whom no one dared to mess". I was also told that NCA had not been “generous to its heads and principals”. Well, if that’s true, people are not fair. Furthermore, the history of art and artists in Pakistan is even more unjust. I dislike how some people hastily categorise your work under Cubism, Symbolism and other styles. Recently, I came across an article tracing your journey from Rampur to Calcutta, Bombay, South India, London, France, Prague and finally the Mayo School of Arts in Lahore. By doing so, the author established connections between your work and that of Abindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy, Charles Gerraed, Andre-Lhote, Picasso and some more Frenchmen. She further claims that your work is close to Ajanta Cave paintings while the palette is indebted to Mughal and Kangra Schools. By the way, I am all for the collective intelligence and shared experiences but one should not undermine your creative genius and a signature style that is apparent in selective iconography, preferred subject matter, keen observation of times and a sound understanding of substantial and ethereal realities.

For now, and with due respect to Pakistani art writers and researchers, I suggest they refrain from justifying their existence through Western comparisons. Especially, when the Westerners themselves have been confused about their art practices. You would know that the Society of Independent Artists in New York once rejected Marcel Duchamp's readymade urinal for exhibition. Later, the Young Friends of the Philadelphia Museum of Art recognised this artwork as one of the most influential pieces that transformed Modern Art. We also consider you “the Founder of Modern Art” in Pakistan. Although you had no connection with Duchamp and didn’t borrow from anyone, especially not the plumbers. Your friends, students and others who would crash at your place when broke  Kamal Ahmed Rizvi Sb was one  always spoke highly of you. He would often share stories about your fondness for the caged parrot and your love for books. Let me share a secret: your books weren’t lost; they were sold for a few bottles. Naturally, your kind soul would forgive those who, in their struggles, took advantage of you. However, I cannot let go of those who strip your work of its essence by focusing on the nudity and sensuality in your figures, foreign literature or  interpretation of the caged bird as your sole companion in solitude. I will not take the liberty of commenting on your personal or marital life. Neither, I shall interpret the humorous illustration by a newbie depicting you sitting under the Principal’s office table in frenzy. When asked, he admitted that he had never been to the office himself. Don’t worry, I have extended an invitation on your behalf. If nothing else, he should begin by learning about the table. Is it, like the wooden screen in your office Bhai Ram Singh’s creation? Please do confirm.

Sir, I regret sounding like Auntie Agni or a Gossip Girl; my intentions are genuinely pure and sincere. I want to entice the readers of this letter to visit Shakir Ali Museum and experience your works which are proudly displayed on the walls of your residence. Yes, your home is declared a museum now, thanks to the few visionaries at PNCA. The house itself is a thing of beauty that stands tall, showcasing innovative modernity – rooted in convention yet avant-garde in design and functionality. The same goes for the paintings that are unapologetically conventional in the abstract conception of space and form yet very modern in representation and execution.

Sincerely yours,

Bano

Sept 2024