ISLAMABAD: A solo exhibition displaying the works by distinguished artist Mohammad Sajjad Akram, whose poetry book was also launched on the occasion, opened at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) on Monday.

Sajjad Akram is renowned for his expertise in sculpture, painting and installation art.

The exhibition titled Mureed o Murshid showcased Akram’s multi-disciplinary mastery and profound exploration of spirituality in modern art, captivating art enthusiasts, cultural connoisseurs, and visitors in general.

Drawing inspiration from his revered teacher, the late artist Irfan Hakim, Akram’s works incorporate elements of geometry, black and white illusions and geometric patterns, imbuing each piece with profound symbolism and meaning.

The artist’s poetry book containing verses both in Urdu and Punjabi was also launched at the event. His collection of poems, which mostly revolved around spirituality, showed that he had a natural flair for poetry just as in visual artistry.

Speaking on the occasion, Gallery 6 curator Dr Arjumand Faisel, who inaugurated the event, said Sajjad Akram’s art expressed a profound journey of spiritual connection between teacher and student.

“His ability to convey the beauty and depth of art through paintings, sculptures and installations is truly inspiring,” Dr Faisel added.

PNCA Director General M. Ayoub Jamali said: “We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to Mureed o Murshid.”

Sajjad Akram’s work embodied the spirit of cultural exchange and artistic innovation, he added.

Later talking to Dawn, Sajjad Akram said his paintings and sculptures had a deep meaning, which revolved around life itself.

About his work that focused on geometric patterns, he said: “Everything starts from a dot and then progresses forward, taking on various shapes. This is what life is; it is a journey that starts from nothing.”

Speaking about his other works that showed Quaid-i-Azam and Allama Mohammad Iqbal’s sculptures covered with currency notes, the artist said that he wanted to convey to the audience that “we, as Pakistanis, had put the teachings of our great leaders on the backseat”.

“These leaders have been reduced to mere portraits,” he said.

About his book, Mr Akram said this was his first collection of poems, and he launched it at the exhibition because both his poetry and visual art were interconnected.

“Being a multi-disciplinary artist, I make use of all the mediums to convey my thoughts,” he said, adding that some thoughts “are well explained through physical descriptions; others are better understood through words”.

The exhibition will remain open to visitors till May 16 from 10am to 4pm, except on Saturdays.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2024