It has been said that the beauty of calligraphic script is so evident that even those who cannot read the text enjoy the visual experience of the flowing lines. Several contemporary artists in Pakistan have been inspired to add their creative input to the art. Kufic script particularly with its horizontal lines is the closest to drawing with its horizontal, often elongated lines. Artists such as Shakir Ali, Sadequain, Gulgee and Jamil Naqsh were inspired by the exquisite tradition and went on to pay homage to their heritage in their individual and unique styles.

An artistic appreciation for the tradition continues among young artists, who struggle to realise their own interpretation. Recently meeting the modest young artist, Noreen Akhtar, at her first solo exhibition mounted at the Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore, one was amazed by the bold innovations introduced in her work. Her success in developing unity out of diversity was remarkable. Showing a collection of 60 artworks created over a period of several months, one discovered a delightful enthusiasm in the numerous innovations introduced by the artist.

Using variations of text, collage, shapes and colours, the artist produced an arresting, unusual collection of artworks inspired by her admiration for the grace of the Arabic calligraphy. Akhtar attained a Master’s degree in fine arts and painting, from the College of Art and Design, the University of the Punjab in 2012. During her student years, she had actively practised the techniques of ceramics, photography, painting, calligraphy and sculpture and one can find traces of these disciplines in the work shown in exhibition.

Studying the images the viewer discovered tiny areas of written text. So perfect were these repeated patterns that they appeared as printed inclusions; but the artist explained that these were scripted by hand using the finest of brushes. The powerful element of design in the work included diversely painted layers of circles, squares and oval components that enhanced the elegant lines of flowing, often single letters.

Working with media that included watercolour, silver and gold leaf on cardboard, the artist who had studied calligraphy and taken advice from masters of the art, revealed through her creations a creative technique that speaks well for the future. Using shades of red, green and blue to great effect, she had studied and implemented the dots lines and curves of the Arabic alphabet to great effect, with refreshing freedom.

“In my recent works I have tried to show the importance of nukta in a different manner. Though it seems small and unimportant yet it plays an important part in completion of the Arabic alphabet. In my present work I have enhanced the importance of nukta as it is the only major difference in turning hay into jeem. The effect is further enhanced by intermingling them with the Arabic alphabet and specific Islamic illuminated colours,” states Akhtar.

The artist was congratulated on her achievement by the chief guest, Professor Dr Rahat Naveed Masud, and a number of students and graduates of the College of Art and Design who explored the work with positive interest. Making her art debut Akhtar proved to be an extremely interesting artist; one to watch out for.