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In this November 2010 photo, Usman Ghouri takes a break and poses for a photograph at the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture. - Photo by Jamal Ashiqain
KARACHI: Young artist Usman Ghouri passed away today after suffering a heart attack early morning.
Born in Sukkur on July 12, 1969, Ghouri received a Bachelor of Design from the National College of Arts. Later, he received a Masters of Art (MA) from University of New South Wales, Australia in 2000.
A faculty member at the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture since 1996, Ghouri was known for his firm approach and polite manners. He also worked for VASL in 2004 and had taken part in various solo and group shows on national and international level.For some who was well known for observing and absorbing the issues around him with a keen eye, Ghouri’s work reflected his thoughts perfectly. He summed up his feelings aptly in the artist statement for his Verbal Nonverbal series where he wrote, “Art is my passion, profession and my life. The creative process provides articulation of my work. I observe and absorb environment and issues that surround me. In time, these issues develop distinct relationships with my thoughts, resulting in a discourse of profound and meditative nature. The open ended dialogues of such discussion share a presence in my work, without prejudice and judgment.”
Ghouri is survived by a widow and three children. The artist fraternity in Karachi and Lahore has expressed deep shock over his untimely demise.
Ghouri’s funeral prayers will be held today at 5:30 pm at Baitul Mukaram Masjid, Block 16, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Main University Road, Karachi.
It is really great lose for the institution of art and for the pakistan, it is sad moment to hear the demise of the the great artist but on the way to spiritual journey we are unable to take him back.
The only way we follow and pray that may Allah rest his soul in eternal peace.
Hajat Ullah Baig Hunza,
"Who, when a misfortune overtakes them, say: 'Surely we belong to Allah and to Him shall we return'."
Quran, Sura Al-Baqara, Verse 156.
Such a saddening, hard to register…. May Allah bless his soul and give strength to his family and friends to bear the loss. AMEEN…….He was such a nice soft spoken person, with warm welcoming smile….ready to give company, time and care to everyone… He was among those group of people, who along with their professional position, are humble and humane. His absence will always be felt…..
I am very sad to learn about Usman's untimely death. It came as a shock to me and to others too.
I di not know him very well as a person but he was my junior and when ever i visited NCA, he was always warm and welcoming person.
May Allah give strength to his family to bear the grief !
Most sad and un acceptable situation in my life,my mind still struggling to accept this truth that our dear friend leave us.
May Allah Bless his Soul.
AMEEN
such a sad shocking news. He was a brilliant artist and an amazing teacher who will never be forgotten…May Allah rest your soul in peace Ameen
He was amongst the rare breed of teachers that would share their experience and wisdom yet encourage one's own uniqueness push through. My Mentor, Teacher, Friend and a great conversationalist. My printmaking days at Indus Valley are filled with memories of his trademark hearty laughter and the countless cups of coffee we'd share over those inspirational conversations. From his humble beginnings to his career as an artist, he had struggled to seek out doing what he loved doing the most. At times, working late into the night on a painting, after his day job as he called it. I will be sad at his passing but shall be grateful for the time I was able to spend with him. You were an inspiration to us all Usman sahib, I shall look forward to hear your laughter again in the next life. Ina ilahi wa ina ilayhe rajyioon.
Really sad and shocking. He was a amazing artist who has worked in a number of mediums. One of the very few out standing artists of the country who's work had a soul, sensitivity and such depth. Also also what a joyful and brilliant person he was. How totally at lost of words i am but i would say He has left a huge void in our art scene, and will dearly be missed .