Exhibitions

---

Curatorial Project

Figuration, in its most potent form, is not merely a study of anatomy or likeness; it is a vessel for memory, emotion and lived experience. Shaping Figures brings together a diverse range of practices that engage the figure as a mutable form, shaped as much by internal states and personal histories as by visual structure.

Here, the figure does not always appear whole or complete. It flickers between visibility and concealment, memory and myth, intimacy and distance. For some artists, it becomes a site of reclaiming; of self, of voice, of long-silenced desires. For others, it functions as a trace: of domestic rituals, of generational shifts, of collective grief or inherited dreams. The works swing between precision and fragmentation, drawing lines not just around bodies, but around the moments, spaces and emotions they inhabit.

The exhibition defiesa singular narrative. Instead, it assembles an evolving dialogue; between figuration and abstraction, control and vulnerability, gesture and silence. These are not portraits in the traditional sense; they are renderings of psychological landscapes, of bodies shaped by memory, displacement, shame, resilience and hope.

In Shaping Figures, the figure becomes a method; of seeing, of remembering, of holding space. It becomes a place where personal stories overlap with larger cultural frameworks and where artistic practice becomes an act of making sense, not of what is seen, but of what is felt, remembered or imagined. Through drawing, painting, sculpture and mixed media, the artists offer not answers, but forms; open, layered, and in flux through which we might encounter the complexities of being.

-FS Karachiwala

(Participation as Artist)

Online Curatorial Project

‘Dil Se…’, a global online art exhibition and a significant chapter in FS Karachiwala's Art Beyond Borders (2nd global art exhibition) ; brings together 21 distinguished artists, each offering a profound expression of creativity, emotion and transcendent storytelling.

A profound exploration of nostalgia, memory, resilience and emotional depth, bringing together artists whose works stem from personal experiences, cultural reflections and human connections. Through diverse artistic mediums, the exhibition bridges past and present, linking retro aesthetics with contemporary interpretations, personal narratives with universal emotions, and structured compositions with spontaneous expressions. From modernizing vintage objects and lifestyle elements of the 1960s-1980s to capturing the quiet strength of nature, memory and human resilience, each artwork embodies a deeply personal yet widely relatable sentiment.

The artists explore into themes of adaptation, cultural displacement, intergenerational trauma and the profound impact of human

behavior on relationships and surroundings. Some works reflect the fluid nature of belonging, others reimagine abstract forms of human emotions, while several pieces celebrate healing, recovery and transformation. The

interplay of color, texture, materiality and form evokes a sense of longing, love and the mysteries of existence; much like the poetic verses of Amrita Pritam, where emotions stay in silence and imagination.

'Dil Se...' , embarking on an intimate journey, witnessing stories told through

visual language that transcends borders. It is an ode to human connections, unspoken emotions and the enduring power of art to evoke, heal and unite.

Online Curatorial Project

This exhibition combines silent dreams, unspoken emotions, and the complex interplay of memory, identity, and connection. The artists explores into themes ranging from personal introspection to universal experiences, offering a profound exploration of what often remains unsaid. Each work embodies a unique narrative; whether through the beauty of nature, the resilience of human spirit, or the resonance of memory and loss. The relationship of light, shadow, texture, and form captures the intangible essence of emotions that surpass language. From symbolic landscapes and surreal objects to intricate patterns and vibrant colors, the show resonates with the shared human experience of reflection and growth.

This exhibition transforms silence into a powerful dialogue. It celebrates the resilience found within fragility, the strength in vulnerability, and the beauty of unvoiced truths. Together, these artworks create a space for contemplation, nurturing a deeper connection to the unseen and unheard moments that shape our lives.

Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi (Curatorial Project)

Explores the often hidden world where the essence of performance takes shape. This exhibition reveals the moments of preparation, vulnerability, and unseen labor that contribute to the final spectacle on stage. Each artist in this show approaches the theme through a unique perspective, offering an intimate portrayal of the emotional and physical journeys that occur behind the scenes.

Ammara Rafique and Anum Ashraf both explore the disciplined elegance of dance, focusing on the collective energy and personal transformation that precede a performance. Ammara’s silhouetted dancers emphasize the beauty of unseen movements, while Anum's delicate watercolors capture the vulnerability and strength of ballerinas as they prepare for their stage debut. Their works reveal a shared admiration for the grace and effort behind the spectacle.

In contrast, Amna Qamar and Bilal Ahmed’s collaborative installation discovers the labor and emotions of backstage workers. Through dynamic compositions, they blur the lines between personal and public spaces, drawing attention to the unseen hands that bring performances to life. Similarly, Aruj Fahim and Bakhtiyar Ahmed's pieces pay tribute to the often overlooked individuals behind the scenes. Aruj’s symbolic imagery emphasizes the crucial role of backstage workers, while Bakhtiyar highlights the unrecognized support systems that contribute to personal success.

Artists like Aqib Faiz and Muhammad Jawad Hassan reflect on the historical and emotional weight behind performance. Aqib merges traditional craftsmanship with modern design to represent the timeless dedication of performers, while Jawad’s sculpture of Charlie Chaplin captures the resilience and humor required in the face of challenges.

Other works in this exhibition, such as those by Habiba Safder, Hina Tabassum, and Umaina Khan, explore deeper themes of self-reflection, transformation, and personal growth. From the intimate moments of circus training to the fluidity of identity in performance, these artists reveal the intense inner journeys that shape every performer.

Ultimately, "BTS" is a fête of the unseen. It honors the dedication, labor, and emotional complexities that unfold away from the spotlight, reminding us that every polished performance is the result of countless unspoken moments of preparation and perseverance. This exhibition invites viewers to appreciate the full spectrum of effort, from the quiet gestures backstage to the brilliance of the final act.

Curatorial Project

The color red is one of the most powerful and complex shades in the visual spectrum. It evokes a range of emotions and holds deep cultural significance across the world. This exhibition, ‘RED’ aims to explore the various interpretations of red through the works of contemporary artists, offering a vibrant and thought-provoking experience.

Exploring Muhammad Ashraf’s celebration of Lahore’s landscape, the ‘Sumbal – red flower’ blossoms in all its glory. His works, a harmonious blend of realism and abstraction, capture the admiration for this vibrant bloom, inviting viewers to lose themselves in its beauty. Moving forward, we encounter Muhammad Atif Khan’s captivating pieces. His use of roses and sweets symbolizes happiness and hope, while ants and flies introduce elements of discomfort and negativity. This contrast urges reflection on the duality of life and finding balance within it. Munawar Ali Syed’s installation serves as a reminder of the world’s escalating violence and the erosion of truth. Barbed wire, transformed into vessels of wisdom, symbolizes obstacles turned into opportunities for growth and resilience. Saamia Ahmed’s thoughtful works delve into the bloodied history of the Mughal empire. The red tomb of the unknown princess evokes the passion and violence of this historical period, painting a vivid picture of a bygone era.

Sana Arjumand’s work transports visitors into the realm of mysticism. Using red to signify a transformative spark, her work celebrates the breaking of the self and the emergence of light, challenging conformity and embracing the freedom of being. Inspired by the ancient game ‘Snakes and Ladders’, Shireen Bano Rizvi’s paintings observe societal relationships and the path to enlightenment. Through sacred geometry and classical techniques, she has given profound meaning to her works, emphasizing light and hope amidst life’s challenges.  Finally, Zobia Yaqoob’s art explores the spiritual realm with various hues of red. Bold yet soft gestures capture the dynamic and subtle nature of existence, portraying the cycle of life and the essence of the inner spirit.

This exhibition offers a unique and enriching experience, highlighting the emotional depth, cultural significance, natural beauty, and innovative uses of red. This exploration will not only deepen our understanding of this vibrant color but also provide a space for reflection and connection with the countless ways red influences our lives.

A celebration of the diverse interpretations and powerful impact of the color red in art.

Curatorial Project

"I Carry a Mountain with Me" symbolizes the journey of the Palestinian people, where each breath triggers metaphorical landslides, rocks tumbling down the mountainside, and the peak slowly yielding to the weight. Amidst this burden, there exists a glimmer of solace, for one day, the mountain will crumble, offering much-needed respite.

Hailing from the vibrant city of Karachi, the featured artists unite to weave a tapestry of hope, resilience, and the unshakable spirit of the Palestinian people. These artists, representing diverse backgrounds and artistic styles, employ various mediums, from captivating paintings and sculptures to avant-garde digital art. Together, they breathe life into the intricate layers of the Palestinian narrative.

"I Carry a Mountain with Me" transcends being a mere exhibition; it becomes a testament to the enduring human spirit and the boundless power of art. This showcase invites viewers to reconsider the meaning of home in this world. Whether it's born of chance, necessity, or choice, the concept of home evokes intricate emotions – space, place, belonging, absence, fragility, and, at times, trauma.

Curated by FS Karachiwala, this platform offers artists the opportunity to express themselves and leverage their creativity to foster reflection, connection, and a profound sense of unity. This exhibition is not just an event; it's an impassioned invitation for all to unite and employ art as a vessel for hope in shaping a brighter future.

A heartfelt homage to the people of Palestine, where art transforms into an instrument of resilience and a captivating beacon of aspiration. It's an extraordinary journey that testifies to the enduring hope that glimmers even in the darkest of hours.

Anna Molka Gallery (Curatorial Project)

"Aik Kahani Sau Afsanay" is part of a captivating series of shows with diverse themes, each distinguished by its unique thematic exploration. In this edition, the spotlight falls on 'Kuch Ankahi Si Baatain' (Some Untold Stories), where artists ingeniously weave narratives that intertwine with varied elements of artistic expression. The artists are given an unbridled canvas to articulate their tales through an array of mediums and styles, thereby fostering a splendid tapestry of artistic diversity.

The exhibition's vision is to curate an art exhibition that covers in a multidimensional and immersive journey. Each artwork serves as a pivotal chapter, collectively forming an intricate narrative tapestry that indicates viewers to extract the concealed narratives covered within the art's layers. The goal is to captivate the audience, catalyze reflection, and cultivate a profound admiration for the intricate art of storytelling. 

VM Art Gallery (Curatorial Project)

 A boundary holds no bounds.

Boundaries are never merely lines; they are conditions, thresholds and shifting states of being. They define and divide, protect and confine, connect and isolate. They may be visible as walls and fences, or intangible as cultural codes, memories and the passage of time. They are shaped by history, power and circumstance, and in turn, they shape how we perceive ourselves and the world.

This exhibition explores the many ways boundaries are experienced and interpreted—through the layers of urban decay, the weight of inherited histories, the fragility between private and public spaces, the organic metaphors of nature, and the vast ecosystems that sustain and outlast us. Here, boundaries become more than obstructions; they emerge as invitations to look deeper, to unearth what lies beneath and to question what is kept in or left out.

In the wake of the Covid lockdown, a global boundary redefined our relationship to movement, contact and shared space. The works gathered here carry forward this reflection, revealing boundaries not as fixed, but as mutable; capable of being dismantled, reimagined, or transformed into sites of dialogue.

Exploring Boundaries asks us to reconsider the edges we inhabit; whether political, personal, physical or imagined and to see in them not just limits, but possibilities.

VM Art Gallery (Participation as Artist)

Participation as Artist