KARACHI: Since artists themselves are a talented lot, they draw a great deal of inspiration from other creative individuals. They find them intriguing because it’s the inscrutability and mystery of creative pursuits that keep them alive to art. Therefore the creative process itself becomes a work of art. It is in this context that an exhibition of two Lahore-based artists Ahmed Ali Manganhar and Hasnat Mehmood’s works titled ‘Icons/Pakistan Zindabad’, which opened at the Canvas Art Gallery on Tuesday, assumes significance.
As can be gauged by the name of the show, both artists have paid tribute to the ‘local’ icons and ‘indigenous’ goings-on in Pakistan. Some of the pieces, however, can also be taken as backhanded compliments. For example, the ‘Facebook Ad’ series (reflective tapes on plexi glass) by Mr Mehmood points out the obsessions that many in our society have with quality nuptial relationships.
But he impresses more with his tribute to the likes of the legendary Madam Noor Jehan, actress Babra Sharif and pop singers Nazia and Zoheb. Especially in the Babra Sharif (acrylic spray paints on paper) artwork, he manages to bring out the trademark spunk associated with the film star. He does the same with Noor Jehan by showing her youthful persona.
