Raqs-e-Sehra: Paintings bring desert life to capital

Painting exhibition of Shahid Iqbal to be held at Jharoka Art Gallery till March 3.

ISLAMABAD: An exhibition of paintings by contemporary artist Shahid Iqbal opened at Jharoka Art Gallery on Tuesday.

Titled “Raqs-e-Sehra” (Dance of the Desert), the exhibition showcases figurative paintings of Thar women, going about their everyday routines or dancing to the beats of a dhol.

The artist has painted in both water colours and oil paints to depict the changing facets of rural life, set against the vastness of the desert.

“That desert has traditionally captured the imagination of many artists but what sets Iqbal apart, is his unique expression and the treatment of his subjects; instead of painting some fantasy, he focuses on bringing the realism of the subject on to canvas which results in stunning imagery” said Naheeda Raza, the gallery curator.

Iqbal, who was born in Hyderabad, Sindh, is deeply rooted to his land of origin and he is inspired by the folk culture and heritage. His interpretations of the desert are strong, precise yet subdued.

Experimenting with form and technique, the artist has painted surreal silhouettes as well as detailed, photographic portraits to illustrate the beauty and tenacity of the local women.

Attired in bright-hued eastern wear, and white ivory bangles, these personify their intrinsic flair for music and dance in a celebration of their simple life. Against the deadness of the desert, these women come alive to exude an enchanting, mysterious aura.

“I’ve tried to capture the essence of these ethic women who keep busy in everyday chores or entertain themselves by dancing to the beat of dhol, it is a virtual exploration of my land and its people,” said Iqbal, talking about his work.

“For someone who has never been to the Thar Desert, these paintings hold promise and incentive. They have a transporting quality about them, which I find interesting,” said Amna Kamal, a guest at the exhibition

Iqbal holds a master’s degree in Arts from University of Sindh in Jamshoro.  The exhibition is his first in Islamabad and will continue till March 3.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 25^th, 2015.