Think different: Sindh’s torn ajrak and a glimmer of light

Arjumand Awan’s paintings scoff convention in theme and colour.

ISLAMABAD:

As any artist would tell you, there is always a story behind their work. An idea that inspired and dominated an entire collection. However, that is not the case with Arjumand Awan; his latest paintings, currently on display at the Nomad Gallery, communicate distinct ideas simultaneously.

Titled “Kuch geet bhi tuo shehar ki khamooshiyoun mein hein”, the exhibition hints at the roles artists play in the society. Mainly in acrylic on paper and canvas, the paintings feature abstract images of people, places and situations.

A collage of ajrak pieces torn and pasted onto the canvas with red paint splattered all over the chadar gives a forlorn feel to the deteriorating situation of Sindh. “When anyone sees this chadar, they relate it to Sindh, this is just my way of expressing what is happening there,” stated the artist. Other pieces showcase human plight, figures hunched with nonchalant faces, yet there is always a ray of light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.

Infused with a surreal cum translucent quality, his work reflects his scorn for convention; green skies enveloping a blazing red sun; “for me, the sky doesn’t always have to be blue, it can be any colour,” he explained. His experimental streak is obvious as each piece varies in technique and image. Far from monotonous, his 45-year-old artistic career boasts of experimentation.

“His work is always experimental which is what attracts art lovers,” stated Nageen Hayat, the curator of the gallery.

Awan’s work demands attention. However, one may argue that seeing depressing figures is the last thing anyone would want to see nowadays with everyone already witnessing, reading and hearing of the despondent situation in the country.

But then again, that’s where the ray of sunshine comes in, as the artist himself put, “I believe that artists are peaceful people, we do not fight wars, but if we ever have to, it is in the form of ideas and concepts.”

The exhibition will continue till February 25.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 25^th, 2012.