KARACHI, April 28: It would be an understatement of sorts to suggest that in the last decade or so terrorism and extremism have had a damaging effect on the lives of teeming millions all around the world. There are no two opinions on that.

Contrary to what people think, amidst all of this the artist community has not acted as a silent spectator, especially when it comes to religion some have tried to tell the world, in their own distinct ways, that religion has nothing to do with extremism. And Adil Akhtar is one such artist.

Adil Akhtar is an oncologist by profession. Painting murals is his passion. Also, he loves Islam and wants the world to know that the religion has nothing to do with intolerance and extremism.

It is against this background that an exhibition of his seven paintings titled Revelations opened at the Commune Artist Colony on Saturday.

According to the artists, the exhibition comprises a series of paintings (acrylic on unprimed canvas) exploring the magnificent history and richness of Islam.

They basically convey the message of peace and harmony, which is at the heart of Islam’s philosophy, and connect a series of important happenings in the history of Islam.

The series begins with Ghar-i-Hira and culminate in Victory for Peace. In between the other pieces depicting certain significant events complete the story in a befitting manner.

The artist has intelligently dealt with the topic. There are no convoluted symbols.

He has kept it simple and to a certain extent there is a direct representation of events. The noteworthy aspect of the series is the broad strokes ably supported by bold colours that go with the grandness of the subject.

The viewer can sense the spiritual element of the artworks, which means Adil Akhtar has succeeded in his attempt.

The exhibition will remain open till May 5.—Peerzada Salman