ISLAMABAD: An exhibition of artworks by four artists provided an opportunity to the residents of the capital to enjoy and celebrate non-representational art, commonly known as abstract art.

Acting High Commissioner of Britain Andrew Dalgleish, who opened the show, appreciated the creativity of the artists.

In a lighter note he said: “I was not the first choice for chief guest, but my wife, who at present is in Britain for summer vacations.”

He read a message on behalf of his wife, Aline Dalgleish, an artist in her own right, who had seen and examined the catalogue.

“As an expatriate artist the theme of absence and presence echoes deeply with my life,” she stated.

For the British artist of French origin, the beauty of an abstract art is the expression of energy transmitted by the artist that is spontaneously received and responded to by the viewer. The emersion in shape, colour, movement and texture that the four artists offer us here triggers enjoyment and inspirating, interrogation surprise and discovery through new depths of deception, Ms Aline said.

The 24 paintings and eight sculptures are remarkably striking and eye-catching giving energy to the viewers in the current atmosphere of gloom and hopelessness. Their expressions flow vibrantly through forms, colours, tone and textures, captivating the viewer with their perfectly composed compositions.

“Non-representational art often leaves many Pakistani art enthusiasts challenged as they struggle to interpret it. They are not comfortable by the apparent ‘absence’ of visually apparent subject matter,” as Dr Arjumand Faisel, the curator, mentioned.

“However, despite its disorderly and spontaneous appearance, abstract art possesses a structured composition that incorporates at least six key elements: colour, shape, form, texture, line, and gestural marks.”

These elements are presented in various forms to achieve desired effects and create a sense of ‘presence’, evoking emotions, sentiments, passions, energy, intensity and undefined beauty that resonates on the surface. Hence the title of the exhibition is ‘Absent/Present’, he said.

The abstract art, according to Qazi Azmat Isa, former head of Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, is very provocative.

There is no clear image but allows the viewer to interpret it according to one’s inner feeling.

Kanwal Zafar, an abstract expressionist painter, has artistically depicted these elements in her paintings. Following a transformative period of meditative research in Konya, the city of Rumi, in Turkey, she developed a passion for infusing spirituality into her artistic creations.

In her paintings on display, she weaves together a new narrative, reflecting her inner journey, discoveries about existence, self-exploration, and a deeper sense of place.

Talking to Dawn, she said: “My work is basically about quantum mechanics, metaphysics, sufism, and energy; when outside world collides with inner one that shakes everything, creates vibration and releases energy. In ‘Awakening to the Rumi Way’ I have tried to paint the chaotic situation, and the elements of earth, architectural structures, and birds.”

Mazher Qureshi, a senior artist, in his seven art pieces has skillfully brought to life the energy of colours and the rhythmic flow of paints.

Mr Qureshi’s latest body of work in acrylic under ‘impregnable images’ series, is simple but very vibrant. He has used few thick and thin strokes but with strong colour combination blending grey, red and white with black artistically, says Farah Mahmood, an artist and art teacher at Comsats University.

“Art grants me the freedom of pure and uninhibited expression, empowering me and instilling a sense of invincibility. I strive to convey personal experiences that resonate with others as well,” he stated.

Nashmia Haroon’s work revolves around the changing landscape of Lahore, and the urban agglomeration due to unplanned development. She expresses her feelings through the medium of photography, video, sculpture, and drawing.

In this exhibition her seven paintings under ‘Marks of Sound’ series embody a captivating interplay of colour, transparency, and harmony in tone and texture. It is because of her passion for classical music that emerges from the artist’s subconscious mind. An avid learner of khayal singing music animates her work.

Shakil Ismail, a Karachi-based noted painter, sculptor, and jewellery designer, has carved a niche for himself in sculpture using various mediums such as metal, glass, gems and stones.

In the current show, his eight sculptures done in copper, silver and bronze etching, platting, and casting with semi-precious stones, acrylic balls and glass are evident of his splendid imagination, simplicity, aesthetic appeal, and beauty.

The exhibition will continue till June 1.

Published in Dawn, May 28th, 2023