The show ‘Inspiring Abilities: Art Beyond Limits’ at the Ejaz Art Gallery in Lahore, held in collaboration with the Karachi Down Syndrome Programme (KDSP), showcased the works of more than 34 artists with Down syndrome, from across Karachi and Lahore.

The show highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive society that allows these unique individuals to thrive and celebrate their individuality. Through their artistic endeavours, they not only embrace their own identities but also inspire others to appreciate the beauty of diversity and inclusion in the world of art.

Circular and spiral movements in vibrant colours, applied in the form of abstract expressionism, were recurring elements across most of the canvases — with a few exceptions. One could sense the immediacy of gestural movements through the use of emotionally charged strokes, as seen in Clouds of Chlorophyll by Masooma Batool, which capture the viewer’s attention through a rhythmic blend of bold green.

Lamia Rabbani’s Dusk Till Dawn is a striking composition rendered in the Impressionist style. Loose, dynamic strokes of fuchsia pink, vibrant blues, reds and lush green infuse the piece with a sense of vibrancy and urgent movement. The spontaneous strokes provide an organic energy to her composition, as if the scene were being painted in real-time, to capture the fleeting beauty of the moment.

Vivid colours and a celebration of individuality defined an exhibition that showcased the inclusivity of art

Bold abstract shapes, with an emphasis on triangles, in Eshaal Hammad’s Pastel Party invite viewers to embark on a visual journey that stimulates the imagination. The immaculate use of space through positive and negative areas here is noteworthy, as is the palpable pulsating energy of the painting.

In Night Sky, a collaborative work by Azeem Nadeem Khan and Amatullah Saifuddin, a serene and contemplative moment is beautifully captured. The vast expanse of the sky, illuminated by the glow of a full moon and the subtle impression of shooting stars, dominates the canvas. A symbolic representation of the self being accompanied by a faithful companion — a pet dog gazing intently at the heavens — adds a personal, introspective and somewhat melancholic layer to the scene. It is a tender portrayal of the challenges faced in physical and cognitive development, and in communication.

Mussawir’s Winter Clouds in acrylic on canvas invites viewers into a vivid, imaginative world, where colours speak their own language. The painting eloquently blends bold shades of dark blue, green and orange to create a striking visual impact. The dripping paint technique adds a raw, almost organic beauty to the canvas.

In Colourful Tornado, he applies thick, dramatic strokes in an abstract expressionist manner that pulses with urgency and intensity. The swirling chaos of the tornado contrasts with the vibrant palette. The feeling of pervasive stillness enhances the emotional pull of the canvas.

It was encouraging to see children with Down syndrome and their families as active participants in this exhibition. Their presence highlighted the importance of inclusivity in all areas of life, especially in the arts.

‘Inspiring Abilities: Art Beyond Limits’ was on display at the Ejaz Art Gallery in Lahore from September 16-23, 2024

The writer is an art critic and artist based in Lahore. She can be reached at ayeshamajeed2015@gmail.com

Published in Dawn, EOS, October 27th, 2024