KARACHI: Calligraphists turn letters and words into shapes and forms; and despite the one-dimensionality of the subject, with reference to this part of the world, impart a multi-dimensionality to their artworks that often proves to be an aesthetic delight. Zaheer Zubair’s exhibits that went on display at the Arts Council’s Ahmed Pervaiz Gallery on Tuesday speak highly for the artist’s love of calligraphy.

Zubair does nothing out of the ordinary, and yet manages to attract the viewer’s attention primarily because of his lush strokes. There are quite a few pieces in the show made in the traditional style as well, and there’s nothing wrong with that because even then some of his pieces stand out due to their flowing, cascading lines. But it’s when he makes divinity his only subject in a single artwork that he excels. The strokes become thicker, the colours bolder and the passion higher. The swirls sometimes come across as a rainbow trying to move within a framework to form one word. There’s a hint of influence of some of Pakistan’s senior artists in his work, which is an encouraging sign.

The exhibition will continue till April 24.