Vibrant Figurative Expressions

“Unspoken Stories” showcased an eclectic mix of emerging artists masterfully conveying human experiences through figurative art with imaginative scenarios.

“Unspoken Stories” was a group show showcasing the works of Muhammad Asad Gulzar, Razin Rubin, Rida Fatima Solangi, Syed Abdullah Ali, and Syeda Seerat Zainab. The exhibition took place at Sanat Initiative on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. Sanat Initiative (SI) deliberately selected these five emerging artists, recognizing their immense potential, hailing from different art schools across Pakistan, and offered them a platform to exhibit their art.

Figurative fine art, as a genre, focuses on representing recognizable objects or figures in ways that transcend mere realism. It employs symbolism, allegory, and metaphors to communicate meaning and emotions, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork on a profound level. The genre’s versatility allows for a wide array of expressions, ranging from serene and contemplative portraits to dynamic and evocative scenes that spark the imagination. Its rich history, spanning various movements and cultures, demonstrates the enduring appeal of representing not just the human form but also the essence of mundane objects.

While the artists predominantly adhered to the boundaries of figurative fine art in this exhibition, they succeeded in presenting their unique perspectives despite the prevalence of digital imagery and abstraction in the contemporary art world. Their dedication to the genre speaks to the timeless power of skillful craftsmanship and imaginative storytelling, reflecting the human experience.

One artist, Syed Abdullah Ali, ventured into a transformative evolution of the genre by incorporating electric colors. These vibrant hues, characterized by their intensity and luminosity, brought a striking and captivating visual appeal to his figurative artworks. Ali harnessed the power of these electrifying tones to infuse his creations with energy, emotion, and surrealism. The juxtaposition of these vivid colors against familiar subjects created an interplay between reality and fantasy, inviting viewers to explore the depths of the artist’s imaginative world and discover underlying themes and narratives.

Razin Rubin’s series of images appeared as transpositions of photographic images or constructed visuals via drawing. This approach engaged viewers in poetic meditations on time and narrative, evoking nostalgia and personal connections to certain events. His work contributed significantly to revealing the artist’s vision and influencing the audience’s perception.

Rida Fatima Solangi’s art, centered around selfies and cellphone camera images, presented a vibrant everyday aesthetic of upper middle-class young adults in their 20s. The revival of memories through photographic references served as a form of escapism, offering sanctuaries for her emotions. Her loosely painted works, characterized by vibrant colors, enhanced the dramatic and narrative qualities of communal expeditions.

In Syeda Seerat Zainab’s work, the use of axonometric and plan drawings added depth and spatial complexity. Dynamic perspectives engaged viewers, creating visually complex and exciting compositions. Her adept use of shading and depth cues further enriched the artwork’s realism, evoking meaningful connections and demonstrating her mastery of these drawing techniques.

Breaking away from traditional figurative presentations, Muhammad Asad Gulzar ventured into Op art to produce highly graphic compositions. Op art’s central concept revolves around a focal point from which dynamic forces radiate throughout the artwork. Gulzar skillfully employed geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and precise optical manipulations to mesmerize viewers and draw their gaze inward, spiraling towards the focal point. As the observer approached the center, illusionary effects intensified, distorting shapes and dimensions, evoking a sense of depth and movement. This manipulation of perception and spatial relationships set his art apart, providing an enthralling sensory experience for the viewers.

Though the exhibition lacked a curatorial note in the catalogue, the artists’ statements, while not particularly groundbreaking, provided insight into the fundamental aspects one would expect from fresh art graduates. On one hand, the works presented seemed predictable within the genre of figurative fine art. On the other hand, the artists’ unwavering commitment to showcasing their training and skills helped establish their individual ethos with clarity.

“Unspoken Stories” presented an ensemble of artworks that explored the nuances of figurative fine art while venturing into bold and transformative territories. Through skillful craftsmanship, imaginative storytelling, and innovative approaches, these emerging artists established themselves as promising voices in the contemporary art scene