Artists from Bahawalpur, Chakwal exhibit at Jharoka

ISLAMABAD: Five artists from different parts of Pakistan displayed their paintings at the “Colours of Summer” exhibition at Jharoka Art Gallery on Tuesday.

The group’s exhibition consisted mostly of oil paintings, with each artist’s work focusing on different subjects.

Ambreen Anjum, an emerging artist from Bahawalpur, was inspired by nature and human behaviour. “The bright tones of oil paints used in my work reflect nature, and the blend and mix of colour represent human behaviour,” said Anjum.

Anjum, who has a Masters degree from Islamia University, Bahawalpur, considers Islamabad a good platform for artists. This was her first time exhibiting at an art gallery and she said it was “a lovely experience”.

“Anjum’s work is very thoughtful and full of depth” said Zahra, a visitor.

“Her work is new and abstract, and there is depth in her thoughts,” said Asad, another visitor.

Three artists, Tanvir Kauser, Shezad Kauser and Nafeesa Kasuer, from Chakwal, exhibited their landscape paintings of Chakwal, Rohtas Fort and Kitas.

The lush green fields and scenes of the scenes of the countryside reflect typical Pakistani village life.

“The landscape paintings showcased the greenery of Chakwal really well,” said Asad.

Nahida Raza, curator of Jharoka Art Gallery, said their work is preserving archaeology through art, as the ruins will be destroyed in the future, but they will live on forever in the paintings. “They are inspired by their surroundings and it is displayed beautifully in their work,” she added.

Hanif Khan, who has exhibited in Islamabad before, is a calligrapher from Karachi. He used a mix of Islamic architecture and calligraphy in his paintings. His work reflects history, Islamic civilisation and Quranic verses in earthy brown shades, which gave his work gravity.

“Islamic architecture is promoted though his work,” said Maha Khan.

Curator Raza told The Express Tribune: “I wanted to bring variety to the exhibition and every artist displays uniqueness and individuality. All of them have worked hard and their work speaks for itself.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 28^th, 2010.