ISLAMABAD: The week-long ‘Scapes of Pakistan’ exhibition, which opened on Wednesday, explores a comprehensive subject: the landscapes and cityscapes of Pakistan.

It is a theme that may seem expansive for a lone exhibit, but its title is more capacious than the contributions of 10 contemporary artists that make up the exhibition.

Rather than attempt to survey landscapes from the entire country – a topographical impression that is too often generalised and its internal diversity overlooked – Scapes is a glimpse into the perspectives of artists depicted in various mediums. Organised at Gallery 6, the exhibition features bold and colourful contributions from artists Nazir Ahmed, Zulfiqar Ali Zulfi, M. Kazmi Syed, Mughees Riaz and others.

M. Kazmi Syed’s gloriously portrayed landscapes of a wavering river against the subtle hues of a desert and a faltering evening sky is the first painting on display and the elusive theme of struggle and hope merged together in watercolour sets the tone for the entire exhibit.

In contrast, Nazir Ahmed’s unabashed use of bold green strokes against a grey sky and Zulfiqar Ali Zulfi’s depiction of Lahore’s streets brings a foray of diversity and vacillating perspectives.

Mughees Riaz’s paintings maintained an aura of uniqueness and miscellany, and while each art piece exuded individuality, the impact resonated with panache. Similar to his work, Shahla Rafi’s sinuous pink river contrasted with audaciously green trees has the viewer mesmerised and though the sense of dispersion settles in, the painting itself leaves a profound impact. The painting is evocative and follows a distinct merging of a theme of movement and stillness while attempting to discreetly cause a sense of movement within.

Ajab Khan’s commitment to presenting the life in Dera Ismail Khan through subtle brushstrokes is an absolute divergence to Shazma Shaikh’s expressionism of modern city landscape that adds a photographic element to her style.

However, Khayam exuded a sophisticated aura of secrecy and mischievousness. The work lures the viewer in, perturbs the mind and leaves a sense of profound curiosity.

With 26 paintings on display, the exhibit explodes with colour and energy, and the vivid works come together to form splashes of bright blues, purples, oranges and greens against the gallery’s sparkling white walls.

The magnificence of Scapes is that it allows one to view the various features of Pakistan’s landscapes and while each artist’s individual piece comes with their own style, the exhibit is entirely unified under its theme. Though each piece may connect through the mood or subject, each expresses itself as much as the exhibition as a whole.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2017