This week You! pens down a vivid review of the recently held art exhibition of artist Sharjil Baloch at Alliance Française Karachi…
art review
An art exhibition is a visual journey that invites you to discover a variety of artistic expressions and cultural tales. Every stroke and sculpture in this artistic world tells a unique story, encouraging a dynamic relationship between the artist and the observer. Art exhibits in Pakistan showcase a diverse spectrum of artistic expressions, from traditional forms to contemporary interpretations. They serve as platforms for emerging talents, fostering a vibrant art scene.
These exhibitions contribute to cultural preservation, offering glimpses into the rich heritage of the nation. Beyond aesthetics, they provide a visual commentary on societal issues, encouraging meaningful dialogue. Educational initiatives and global recognition further elevate the significance of art exhibits, making them vital contributors to Pakistan’s cultural enrichment and international presence. The Alliance Française Karachi recently showcased Sharjil Baloch’s art exhibition, titled ‘Scattered Tears’. Established in 1954, Alliance Française de Karachi is the largest French language and cultural centre in Pakistan. More than a language hub, it serves as a dynamic cultural space hosting a variety of events, including concerts, performances, art exhibitions, and conferences featuring both Pakistani and French personalities. The Alliance Française de Karachi, affiliated with the global Alliance Française network, welcomes visitors to explore its gallery, library, bookshop, café, and participate in French language courses and workshops, contributing to the cultural richness of Karachi.
Recently, the gallery showcased an exhibition by Sharjil Baloch, who hails from Quetta and was born in 1972. He is not only a medical graduate but also a distinguished visual artist, an award-winning documentary filmmaker, and an actor. With a versatile skill set, he has made significant contributions as an online video producer for BBC Urdu Service. His short films, including ‘Ghairat Mand,’ ‘Pervez,’ and ‘Gurmukh Singh Ki Wasiyat,’ earned recognition by being shortlisted for various international film festivals. In 2009, his documentary ‘Kee Janan Maen Kaun’ secured the first South Asian Award in Kathmandu. Beyond filmmaking, he showcases his artistic prowess as a painter, participating in both national and international watercolour biennales. Beginning his painting journey in 1995, he has since been prolific in producing countless high-quality commissioned portraits. His work has graced numerous local and international exhibitions, including notable showcases in Italy, Peru, Poland, and Serbia. Demonstrating a skilled command over watercolour, acrylic, and charcoal mediums, Sharjil’s artistic versatility shines through in his diverse body of work.
In his recent exhibition ‘Scattered Tears’, the artist captivates with its delicate portrayal of nature’s ephemeral beauty. Rendered on A3-sized paper, this watercolour masterpiece skilfully captures the essence of raindrops as they cascade, each droplet a transient moment frozen in time. The choice of watercolour medium adds a nuanced texture, creating a blend of colours that mimics the gentle dance of rain on various surfaces. Watercolour on paper is a captivating artistic medium that holds a distinct allure for both artists and art enthusiasts. This technique involves using pigments suspended in water to create luminous and translucent washes of colour on paper. The absorbent nature of paper allows for delicate layering and blending, giving watercolour paintings a unique sense of transparency and fluidity.
One of the remarkable qualities of watercolour on paper is its ability to convey a wide range of emotions and atmospheres. Artists can achieve soft, ethereal effects or vibrant and intense hues, depending on the concentration of pigments and water. The spontaneity and unpredictability of watercolour makes it an exciting and dynamic medium, as the paint can flow and bleed in unexpected ways, resulting in beautiful, organic patterns.
Watercolour paintings on paper often showcase the artist’s mastery of technique as seen in the work by Sharjil, as precision and control are essential to achieving intricate details and fine lines.
The play of light and shadow, the delicate transitions between colours, and the subtle nuances created by layering contribute to the overall visual impact of the artwork.
The choice of paper is crucial in watercolour painting, influencing the texture, absorbency, and overall appearance of the final piece. Artists may opt for cold-pressed or hot-pressed papers, each offering a different surface texture that affects the way the paint interacts with the surface.
The artist’s adeptness with watercolour is evident in the meticulous detailing of each droplet, showcasing a mastery of the medium. The subtle play of light and shadow adds dimension to the composition, infusing the artwork with a sense of realism. The A3 size provides an intimate viewing experience, drawing the observer into the intricacies of the raindrop-laden scene.
The painting not only showcases technical prowess but also conveys a poetic sensitivity to the subject matter. The choice to focus on raindrops, a fleeting and symbolic element of nature, invites contemplation on the transitory nature of life. This piece of art skilfully catches the viewer’s imagination, providing an escape into a world of beauty and reflection via the lens of raindrops on paper.
