Ali Azmat’s art exhibition titled ‘Sirat-e-Mustaqeem?’ (‘The True Path?’) was recently held at the Canvas Gallery.
During the 10-day exhibition, 20 paintings of the Lahore-based artist were put on display.
As the title of the collection suggests, through his art, Azmat questioned the current state of Pakistan on political, social, religious and moral grounds.
According to a statement released by the Canvas Gallery, Azmat presented his experiences in paintings that are not picture-perfect, yet, they convey to the viewers his thoughtfulness and his perception of the society in a unique style.
Talking about ‘Sirat-e-Mustaqeem’, Prof Salima Hashmi said, “Perceiving the hypocrisy which underlies protestation of faith, Azmat examines shallow rituals and empty conventions.”
Indeed, through the exhibition, Azmat has reinforced the belief of art lovers in his substantial skill and careful observation.
Hailing from a country that has seen highs and lows like martial laws, militancy, religious fanaticism and polarisations of different sorts, Azmat has used the images of the Holy Book to present visual references.
On the one hand, Azmat is bold enough to choose a hallowed reference, but on the other hand, he chooses to be careful by not removing the cover of the book. It is for the people to decide what the message could be.
Canvas Gallery owner Sameera Raja said, “Azmat has reflected not only anger and frustration of a common individual, but we can also feel the hypocrisy of the society in general.”
Raja said, “Azmat has made a strong statement through his work, and what we need right now, in Pakistan in particular, are similar kinds of statements.”
She said the myopia the country suffers from has to be treated. If only daring people like Azmat were to have an apt audience, change would be indispensable, she added, beaming with hope.
