Interesting coffee-table book

A coffee-table book is an oversised, usually hardcover book whose purpose is for display on a table intended for use in an area in which one entertains guests and from which it can serve to inspire conversation. Subject matter is predominantly non-fiction and pictorial and each book deals with a specialised subject – fashion; people - especially well known personalities; the beauty spots of a country and so on - anything and everything the author wants to highlight with his or her work. Beautiful photographs and an interesting text are features that make coffee-table books great presents or display pieces for your home and/or office.

One such book is titled, ‘Defining Moments’ by Mohsin Jaffri and it mainly features paintings by prolific artist Nusrat Bilal but it is also a biography as it has details of her life in script, as well as photographs, before and after she became a recognised artist.

The focus of this publication, according to the author, is Nusrat’s journey into art culture and related activities, including some of her other interests like floral art; interior design; horticulture and in teaching art. She is the recipient of many awards and certificates of recognition for her work.

The book is replete with beautiful photographs of the subjects and scenes painted by the artist in different mediums – oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, charcoal and mixed media – a wide variety of subjects and mediums to choose from! Appreciating the artist and her work, the author says, “Nusratji’s art is reflective of her surroundings. Portraying her messages in creative ways is what she does best. Her love for her homeland and many other things inspire her and the inspiration comes forth as a feeling which is reflected in her paintings. Her choice of colors further transfer those feelings and emotions to the viewer. The colors used on her canvasses have a calming effect and leave the viewer with a feeling of joy.”

Mohsin Jaffri is an author/journalist of repute and a frequent editorial and creative contributor to literary journals both inside and outside Pakistan. He has authored three books and is also the author; researcher and translator of many literary works of merit. He is also an artist with many shows to his credit.

The book has been designed by artist Aftab Zafar who is well known in publishing circles as a professional designer, so it has been beautifully put together and is a good addition to any coffee-table.