The world of fine arts and creative intellect was cast in shades of sorrow as the nation bid farewell to one of its most luminous figures, Mashkoor Raza. The celebrated and revered artist passed away on Monday, February 3, at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy defined by delicacy, maturity, and resilience. His departure creates an irreplaceable void, yet his artistic heritage will continue to inspire generations. Renowned for his mastery of impressionism and abstract art, Raza’s work captivated audiences worldwide, earning him widespread recognition and prestigious accolades.
Born in 1950 in Moradabad, India, into a humble, middle-class family, Mashkoor Raza was the eldest of eight children of Masood Raza, a postmaster in the Indian Postal Service. He began his education at a government school, but his journey as an artist truly began after his family migrated to Pakistan. From an early age, he displayed a deep passion for fine arts, which led him to the Karachi School of Art (KSA).
Despite excelling in the entry test, young Mashkoor lacked the financial means to pay for his tuition and other expenses. Recognising his talent, Madam Rabia Zuberi, one of his mentors, encouraged him to continue his studies without concern for financial constraints. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors like Rabia Zuberi, Hajra Zuberi, and Mansoor Rahi, he refined his artistic skills, graduating with a Gold Medal in 1972.
Perhaps the generosity of his teachers inspired his lifelong dedication to fostering artistic talent. He took on a teaching role at KSA, mentoring aspiring artists before establishing the Mashkoor School of Art in 1990. His institution became a vital platform for nurturing creative minds and enriching the cultural landscape.
Unlike many professionally remarkable artists who leave an impact solely through their creative works, Raza chose the noble path of teaching, sharing his talent, knowledge, and skills with his students. Even during the most challenging phases of his life, he remained dedicated to his craft. To support himself financially, he worked as a textile designer in a mill. However, his passion for art never wavered — he continued to bring colour and life to his canvases, staying true to his artistic essence.
Raza’s career spanned over five decades, during which he exhibited extensively across Pakistan and internationally in countries such as the USA, UK, Germany, Malaysia, India, Bangladesh, Canada, Bahrain, and Iran. His contributions were not only recognised through exhibitions but also through prestigious collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, where his work stands as a testament to his artistic excellence.
Raza’s artistic versatility set him apart from his contemporaries. His early works reflected strong realism and portraiture, but over time, his style evolved into abstract expressionism. Influenced by cubism, he developed a distinctive aesthetic that combined bold colour compositions with fluid, breezy brushstrokes. His mastery of form, texture, and space allowed him to push the boundaries of artistic expression.
One of his most celebrated themes was equestrian art. His dynamic depictions of galloping horses became a hallmark of his work, each brushstroke capturing movement, power, and grace. Additionally, his calligraphic compositions, marked by intricate explorations of line and texture, further showcased his artistic depth, cementing his status as a true master of his craft.
Throughout his career, Raza remained steadfast in his artistic vision, even during financially challenging times. His resilience and determination ensured that he never compromised his principles or artistic integrity. His dedication to excellence earned him the President’s Pride of Performance Award, recognising his invaluable contributions to Pakistan’s cultural landscape. In 2023, he was further honoured with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, solidifying his status as one of the country’s most revered artists.
Beyond his achievements, Raza was known for his humility and generosity. Despite being a towering figure in the art world, he remained approachable and supportive of emerging artists. Friends and colleagues fondly recall his kindness and willingness to share his knowledge, shaping the future of Pakistan’s art scene. Renowned painter Tanweer Farooqi reflected on Raza’s influence, stating, “When I was growing up, I saw a lot of his work and read about him in journalist Shafi Aqeel’s write-ups. Over time, as I began practicing art, I befriended him. Despite being a senior, he was always kind to me.”
Raza’s departure to his heavenly abode marks the end of an era, but his legacy endures through his vast body of work. Whether in the intricate layers of his abstract pieces, the expressive dynamism of his horse paintings or the spiritual depth of his calligraphy, his art will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come. He was one of Pakistan’s most eminent artists and is regarded as the most commercially successful artist in the country. Over his illustrious career, he organised 60 solo exhibitions and participated in numerous group shows, both locally and internationally. He was particularly popular among young artists for his vivid, impressionistic depictions of wild horses.
To aspiring artists, he often shared this invaluable advice: "Never copy the works or approaches of celebrated artists. Always create your own original work, whether it sells or not. Developing your unique style and talent will ultimately lead to growth and success."
Though he is no longer with us, the art community mourns the loss of a visionary while taking solace in the knowledge that his creations will forever tell the story of a man who lived and breathed art. His work remains immortal — a lasting tribute to his genius and unwavering passion.
Muttahir Ahmed Khan is an author, educationist and analyst, can be reached at muttahirahmedkhan@gmail.com
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