Asif Noori opens ‘Guardians of the Spirit’ exhibition at Artciti Gallery

The solo show features 40 paintings inspired by Sufi shrines and spiritual spaces across Karachi

Artciti Gallery recently opened its doors this week to an immersive artistic experience as painter Asif Noori unveiled his solo exhibition, “Guardians of the Spirit.” The collection features 40 paintings inspired by Sufi thought, spirituality, and the cultural heritage of Karachi’s revered saints.

The gallery, lit in blues, golds, and warm earthy tones, offered visitors a space shaped by reflection and mysticism. During the opening, Noori shared insights into the exhibition, providing context beyond the visual experience.

“The theme of this exhibition is Sufism, or in other words, ‘Guardians of the Spirit,’” Noori explained to Express Tribune. “Anything that is precious needs to be protected. Our spirit, our goodness, our inner self, the Sufis dedicated their lives to protecting these values.”

He spoke about the role of Sufi saints in guiding society away from hatred and extremism, fostering tolerance, compassion, and togetherness. “They saved us from wandering. They created an environment of brotherhood. In this sense, they are the guardians of our society. They protect us spiritually, and this is what I wanted to express through my art.”

Instead of painting the saints themselves, Noori focused on their shrines and spiritual spaces across Karachi. “We don’t know how they looked. I don’t want to assume or guess. I don’t want to feel guilty later and think, ‘Why did I paint them like this?’ So I painted their resting places, the spaces that still hold their presence.”

All the works in the exhibition are acrylic on canvas, Noori’s preferred medium. “I use oil very rarely. Acrylic suits my style because I use a lot of color, and this medium helps bring out the vibrancy I want.” He added that the bright colors of shrine interiors inspired his palette, to capture spiritual warmth.

Visitors moved deliberately through the exhibition, noting the architectural details, layered colors, and subtle play of light in Noori’s work. Some paintings suggested the quiet of devotional music, while others depicted a dervish absorbed in ritual, highlighting the connection between physical spaces and spiritual practice.

Attendees described the exhibition as reflective and contemplative, offering a visual perspective on Karachi’s enduring Sufi heritage.