In his work, Azmat takes an unassuming approach evoking an almost philosophical aura which lends the paintings a subdued, surrealistic effect. He expresses emotions through soft, transient pastel tones, smooth textures and a feeling of lightness in the figures and forms he renders on his canvas with dexterity.
In his current body of artwork, he has once again created a total of 10 sensitively-executed works in collaboration of his four-year-old daughter, Ada. Together, they create a catharsis that results in strong yet subtle imagery.
According to Azmat, he has explored a collective creativity that results from painting over paintings, adding layers and lending another dimension to a finished artwork.
“It felt like breaking strong and longstanding barriers and my daughter and I, an artist and a child reacting to each other’s works, resulted in a surprisingly refreshing language --- something that I had never experienced before,” he said. Azmat, who made a mark with his artwork at an impressionable age, is highly-ranked among painters of the figurative art genre.
Meanwhile, Riaz’s series of paintings revolves around landscapes. Oftentimes, the buffalo, crow or other animals find themselves comfortably ensconced in his painting panoramas. For example, his Ravi riverscapes are serene and poised and take inspiration from an observation of nature. They invite a mood of contemplation with undertones of pain and sadness.
Riaz finds nature personal and abstract. “The strange dawn and dusk, water, changing colours; the sky spreading by itself; the beginning of a new day, light turning to dark and night transferring into daylight,” he said, adding that every picture is an expression of unwanted pain and unknown happiness.
Noshi Qadir, the gallery curator, commended both artists for their skill and command over their respective crafts. “In keeping with its aim to present quality art, we at the gallery are proud to present the artworks by these two talented artists,” she said.
“[Azmat’s work] is soulful. The girls look very sad and distant. Meanwhile, I love [Riaz’s] colours, there’s a stillness about it, I like paintings with more movement. The play of colour and light is beautiful. You can almost feel your presence there,” said a guest at the gallery.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 30th, 2014.
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