'Femarmony' art exhibition opens in Karachi
An art exhibition titled "Femarmony", featuring works by artists Imran Ali Kazmi, Nabiha Gillani, Saba Haroon and Ujala Hayat, opened at Sanat Initiative on Tuesday evening, drawing art enthusiasts, critics and members of the public.
The group show, brings together diverse artistic voices, with a particular focus on emotions, inner conflict and the evolving role of women in society. Through a mix of painting styles and visual narratives, the exhibition attempts to bridge personal expression with broader social themes.
Speaking to The Express Tribune, artist Imran Ali Kazmi said his work revolves around the idea of "presence and absence", conveyed through colour, composition and subtle contrasts.
"I basically paint the beauty of the subcontinent, but in a different direction," he explained. "Even in still life, I create a sense of life through colour, while at the same time suggesting absence. It's a contrast a quiet tension."
Kazmi added that in some of his pieces, figures are intentionally obscured or shown from the back, leaving their identity ambiguous. "There's a mystery in the figure, you don't know who they are or what they are doing. The emotions are static, almost hidden," he said.
He also praised the curatorial approach, noting that each artist's work has been given a distinct visual space, allowing their individual styles to stand out while still contributing to a cohesive exhibition.
Artist Nabiha Gillani described her experience in Karachi as "very good", adding that the exhibition reflects the growth and evolution of all participating artists.
Her work, inspired by Japanese origami and aesthetics, centres on themes of hope, healing and peace.
"My series is based on finding beauty in imperfection," she said, referencing a concept similar to the Japanese philosophy of appreciating flaws. "There is movement in stillness in circles and flow. Nothing remains constant in life."
According to the gallery's presentation, the exhibition highlights women's emotions, feelings and internal struggles, portraying them on canvas with sensitivity and depth.
The artworks combine colour and light to tell layered stories, with each piece offering a distinct narrative that invites prolonged reflection. Visitors appeared engaged, often pausing to interpret the symbolism and emotional undertones embedded in the works.
Attendees at the exhibition praised the artists' efforts, describing the show as both visually compelling and socially relevant. Many noted that the artworks not only showcase aesthetic beauty but also contribute to raising awareness about societal issues.
"Femarmony" stands as a collaborative artistic effort that merges individual perspectives into a unified dialogue one that speaks of contrast, resilience and the quiet complexities of human experience.
Sanat translates literally to mean 'art', but in usage, sanat has broader associations and nuances; explaining not just objects or vocation, but defining the artistic process and the sociological implications of art. Founded in early 2014, Sanat Initiative aims to explore the relationship between art, artists and society through active partnerships with curators, galleries, art fairs and museums worldwide. Sanat Initiative provides artists with a platform for ground-breaking projects, thereby promoting experimental and innovative streams of thought in art. Taking advantage of the resources in Karachi, Sanat Residency invites visiting artists to develop projects that respond to new contexts and experiences to broaden their horizons, or to conduct research.
Sanat Gallery provides artists with a platform for ground-breaking projects, thereby promoting experimental and innovative streams of thought in art.
Taking advantage of the resources in Karachi, Sanat Residency invites visiting artists to develop projects that respond to new contexts and experiences to broaden their horizons, or to conduct research.