ISLAMABAD: A solo exhibition of captivating artworks by Farrukh Shahab that opened at Tanzara Gallery on Thursday is a testament to the artist’s ability to capture the relationship between humanity and the natural world, with a particular emphasis on our connection with birds.

Farukh Shahab is a Karachi-based artist with diverse themes and mediums, from figuration to portraits, and abstract art, using oil and acrylic on canvas to wood panels and boxes. He draws inspiration from various sources, such as photographs, societal incidents and the world around him.

The exhibition, titled “Ethereal Bond,” builds upon the themes explored in Shahab’s previous exhibition, “Avian Humanoid,” and deepens the narrative surrounding the relationship between humans and birds. It invites viewers to reflect on the enduring ties that bind humanity to its feathered companions through the universal language of art. The paintings over 20 in number symbolise the human soul in search of reality and the inner self.

“Shahab’s paintings are vibrant tapestries of vivid and stylised figuration, with birds playing a central role as powerful symbols of our intricate connection with the avian realm. The artist employs a rich and dynamic palette of colours to convey the vitality and energy of the profound connection between humans and feathered creatures,” stated Noshi Qadir, the curator of the show.

Shahab’s artistic journey has taken him to various places, including New Delhi, Paris, London and New York, where he met artists and explored different styles and themes -- from portraiture and classical art to abstract and modernist figurines.

Birds such as hoopoe (hoodhood), peacock and crows are prominently featured in his artworks, symbolising the intricate relationship between humans and the avian world.

In Shahab’s words, avian life can be found in various cultures throughout human history.

“In every culture, we find representation of avian in the form of pictures, symbols, beliefs and modes of communication”, said the artist. “It is probably as old as human consciousness.”

According to him, birds hold a timeless place in the human imagination, representing various aspects of life and spirituality.

This exhibition is not just a collection of art; it is a celebration of the profound and ethereal connection between humanity and the natural world. It aims to inspire viewers to appreciate and explore the bond that unites us with the avian wonders of our planet.

The artworks compel viewers to embark on a reflective journey through the enigmatic and enduring ties that bind humanity to our feathered companions. Through Shahab’s skillful use of the universal language of art, this bond is eloquently conveyed, according to the show’s curator.

Shahab was exposed to art and literature from an early age and was lucky enough to meet literary giants like Faiz and Sibte Hassan. Initially, he worked as an abstract artist. Then he realised that he could venture into other domains. His participation in an exhibition in India gave him the opportunity to see some of the ancient treasures.

Returning to Karachi, Shahab painted portraits, buildings and landscapes, and created paintings in the style of the Romantics for the World Bank in Washington and the Karachi’s Governor House. Later, he moved on to elongated modernist figurines.

He loves roaming in Karachi, especially old areas like Empress Market, and Lee Market to study people and Faqirs at shrines.

He has been actively participating in group and solo exhibitions since 1986.

The exhibition will continue till November 9 daily, except Sunday, from 11:30am to 7pm.

Published in Dawn, October 27th, 2023