Landscape paintings by Zulfi go on display

Islamabad : An exhibition of paintings by Lahore-based artist Zulfiqar Ali Zulfi opens at Tanzara Gallery was held Thursday, with over 30 masterpieces from his recent ‘Punjab Romanticism’ series on display for public viewing.

Walking this scribe through the Gallery at the exhibition’s press preview on Wednesday, its curator Noshi Qadir termed Zulfi as a realist painter, whose paintings—be they landscapes or cityscapes—“are more than an imitation of what is seen. “

“Zulfi has the magic of capturing the essence of the vignette that he replicates on canvas. Beyond realism, he understands his subject matter well—be it a rustic scene, or an urban setting, misty horizons, or cattle out in the open fields, the artist renders such images with amazing dexterity,” Noshi commented.

Born in Dera Ghazi Khan, Zulfi graduated in Design from the National College of Arts, Lahore, in 1989. He is a realistic painter of landscapes and is specially known for his use of light in Punjab countryside scenery paintings. A keen observer of nature, his paintings take their inspiration from a direct observation of the natural surroundings.

Coming to the use of colours, his is a rich palette that brings pictorial richness to the canvases. Zulfi’s imagery is idyllic and delightful; he particularly excels in capturing seasons and times of the day. One can truly feel the breeze and smell the grass in his paintings. The foggy winter morning scenes are cold and the sunny landscapes warm and brilliant.

According to Marjorie Husain, “In Zulfi’s paintings, it appears we are all observers. Often standing on the threshold of light. Almost grisaille in his approach to the media, he is a master of chiaroscuro, mornings are cloaked with mist, the tall trees dramatic, leafless silhouettes.”

The artist is a recipient of the President’s Pride of Performance Award. He has several solo and group shows to his credit; his work features prominently in the permanent collections of the Governor House, Punjab Assembly, Administrative Staff College, National Institute of Public Administration, American Consulate, Lahore; Governor House, Nathia Gali; National Art Gallery; and President House, Turkey.

The exhibition will continue till December 30. “To carefully observe a Zulfi painting is to be there!” Noshi remarked in conclusion.