Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 5 Num 162 Wed. November 03, 2004  
   
Culture


A picturesque melange of art works
Islamic calligraphy plus Italian prints


The ongoing exhibition at Art and Soul gallery does not boast of big names as the last one did. This time the organiser, Nabila Rahman, has gone a long way to attract the average buyer, who has no time to browse around in the well-known art markets of the city. Here are traditional Islamic calligraphy, detailed Italian reproductions in academic prints of flowers like the gilded lilies, irises and sunflowers -- with their startling pinks, purples and gold hues. Dominating these are two Indian oils depicting exotic and statuesque women -- being dressed to kill by their equally breathtaking handmaidens.

The calligraphy boasts of Pakistani and Middle Eastern experts that have brought in the toghra too.

In one of Bukhari's works are swirls of red, brown and black, with traditional Islamic calligraphy, done in one portion in black. This oil on canvas is set on a backdrop of beige and burnt sienna. His other work presents the essential Arabic lettering of 'Allah', in gold and reddish brown, amalgamated with emerald green, with each swirl linking into the next, to give a semi abstract finish. Salhas's work is lettering in black and gold with sweeps and waves, offset with ruby red and tangerine swirls. The writing is in horizontal, vertical and diagonal slants. Meanwhile, Masoudi uses textured paper to present calligraphy in bold black and blue.

The artists bear names, that hark back to the land of Omar Khayyam, and neighbouring Pakistan and this carries the viewer's imagination to the days of the Saracens and the Kyber Pass mystics Even the placing of the Indian artist's work with detailed delineation of women at their boudoir, in oils, is also compelling, although they might go against the grain of the overtly conservative. (This is because of the statuesque figures and the picturesque photographic details).

If one went in for Arabic lettering or realism in flora, this display is a must visit. Nabila says, more such captivating displays will be held on the same venue in future.

Picture
An exquisite piece of calligraphy