The concept of perception is a universal force, influencing everyone regardless of their background. This theme is central to ‘Heart of the Matter,’ a three-person exhibition that opened at Canvas Gallery on July 23.

Featuring Safdar Ali, Faheem Abbas and Munawar Ali Syed, the exhibition brings together artists from diverse areas of Pakistan with varied educational backgrounds and artistic practices. Despite these differences, their work converges on a shared exploration of perception and meaning.

The importance of perception in art is eloquently discussed by art critic, novelist, painter and poet John Berger in his seminal essay, ‘Ways of Seeing.’ Berger challenges readers to reconsider how they view art, advertising and media, urging a deeper reflection on how images shape our understanding of culture and society.

Upon entering the gallery, visitors are greeted by Ali’s captivating installation of mini terracotta domes. Titled Ninnanway [99 in Urdu], the piece references the 99 names of Allah and prompts a moment of contemplation. Ali — a multidisciplinary artist from Tando Jam, Sindh, whose academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the National College of Arts, Lahore, and an M.Phil in Art and Design from the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture in Karachi, completed this year — draws inspiration from his

Three artists with distinct styles explore ideas of perception and meaning

own confusion, once, in distinguishing between a mosque and a temple because of their similar dome-like structures.

His work challenges fixed interpretations and invites viewers to engage in a dialogue about the fluidity of symbolism and perception. Ali’s large-format digital prints, such as Samajhne Mein Kuchh Reh Gaya [Lost in Translation] and Perfume Caps, further explore these themes by presenting familiar forms

in unexpected contexts, encouraging viewers to question their assumptions.

Abbas, another featured artist, transitioned from a career in chartered accountancy to the visual arts. A graduate of Beaconhouse National University, Lahore, with a gold medal in BFA-Visual Art, Abbas’s recent works consist of seven small-sized concrete objects in white cement.

These pieces featuring basic shapes, as seen in the artworks Fish, Bird, Pomegranate, and House, exemplify Abbas’s ability to transcend conventional genres. His refined subtlety, sophistication and expert use of minimalistic elements result in a remarkable level of artistic expression.

Syed, the senior artist in the trio, is a multidisciplinary artist and art educator based in Karachi. With a BFA from the National College of Arts (1999) and an MA in Art Education from Beaconhouse National University (2017), Syed’s works for ‘Heart of the Matter’ include the series Talash-e-Gumshuda [Search for the Missing] featuring meticulously crafted metal wire sculptures.

These wall-mounted pieces resemble puzzles, inviting viewers to decipher the overlapping shapes. Syed deconstructs mundane and functional objects to transcend traditional dichotomies such as structure versus agency, and the sacred versus the profane. His artist’s statement reveals his intent to challenge these dichotomies through his work.

Additionally, Syed’s linear sculp­tures highlight the environmental crisis. By juxtaposing animals, birds, everyday objects, toys and furniture, his work underscores the urgency of recognising the chaotic state of our world. The inclusion of a young toddler in several sculptures emphasises the impact of environmental degradation on future generations. Through this compelling blend of elements, Syed’s work calls for immediate awareness and action against the environmental turmoil we face.

‘Heart of the Matter’ successfully brings together the distinct yet interconnected works of Ali, Abbas and Syed. Their exploration of perception and meaning invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of interpretation and the urgent issues affecting our world.

This exhibition not only showcases their artistic talents but also prompts a deeper understanding of the cultural, religious, social and environmental contexts in which we live.

‘Heart of the Matter’ was on display at Canvas Gallery in Karachi from July 23-August 1, 2024

Rumana Husain is a writer, artist and educator. She is the author of two coffee-table books on Karachi, and has authored and illustrated 75 children’s books

Published in Dawn, EOS, August 4th, 2024