Miniature art exhibit celebrates trees

"The Tree for Life" turns to be a solo exhibition of Farrah Mehmood's exquisite miniature paintings, inspired by the rich legacy of Mughal miniature art. Executed with painstaking precision on Wasli, Mehmood's work delves into themes of motherhood, belonging, and social awareness, as noted by Fatima Hamid, the curator of the exhibition at 8b2 Gallery.

Elaborating on the artist's vision, Fatima Hamid observes: "Farrah's practice masterfully bridges the discipline of classical miniature painting with contemporary narratives, engaging with ideas of power, humanity, and communal resilience. The recurring motif of the tree serves both as symbol and structure - a microcosm of Mehmood's technique, where patient, layered brushwork and subtle washes give rise to a dialogue between discipline and spontaneity. In this body of work, the trees transcend their role as mere subjects to become living emblems of enduring craftsmanship and the evolving expressive potential of traditional forms."

Reflecting on her creative journey, Farrah Mehmood shares: "This series embodies my profound reverence for trees as majestic, soulful entities that weave the fabric of our emotional and spiritual landscapes. Inspired by the silent eloquence of trees, my surfaces seek to capture their ethereal essence - standing as guardians of timelessness, witnesses of seasons, and havens of tranquillity. I personify trees, endowing them with a presence that resonates with human emotions of hope, resilience, and contemplation."

She further explains: "In my work, trees embody a serene dignity - at times supplicating for harmony, at others radiating a life-affirming energy that mirrors the enduring spirit of nature. Through colour and form, I explore their mystical connection with the human soul, evoking solitude, strength, and renewal."

For Mehmood, the tree becomes more than a representation; it is a metaphor for endurance and interconnectedness, inviting viewers into a quiet dialogue with nature's grace and resilience. Ultimately, "Tree for Life" stands as a tribute to the tree whose essence infuses her art with serenity and the timeless whisper of the earth's wisdom.