Written by: Muhammad Hamza
Posted on: June 05, 2024 | 
| 中文
(L to R) Unbox and Undisclosed
In his latest exhibition, "Archipelago of The Self," showcased at the Tanzara Gallery in Islamabad, Ahmer Farooq offers a contemporary perspective on the intricate journey of self-acceptance within societal norms. Ahmer talks about the sociological significance for the self to stand out in the most beautiful ways, where the individual struggles to create space for himself in the societal context, not to mention the minorities of this society who have a challenging journey ahead of them.
The abstractions showcased by the artist in “Unfulfilled” can observe a wide array of textures that are applied over the canvas, each a patterned abstract box with its own unique shape, color, texture and form depicting the sea of islands all on one canvas. The vastness of this creation is reflecting the depth of this archipelago as different humans that come around and about in one space, with their own traits. Farooq explores a tint of earthly colors to golden and brown hues, giving it more of a transcendental experience in the spotlight. Indeed, the textures are supposedly the hurdles and challenges that one individual seeks through their lifetime of experiences.
Unfulfilled
The unique circular amalgamation of patterns in “Unapparent”, is a hard blunt sucker punch to the ones who abuse others in their journeys in order to become a worthy entity of this society. The bruises are those textures that feel like burn scars, and the combination of these three visuals as red, orange and yellow gives a highlighted look to the whole body of this motif. The resting background has given a proper contrast to the strokes.
Unapparent I (Triptych)
Ahmer has shown a proper balance between the typographical sculptures of steel and concrete where phrases can also be seen in his canvas works, more like chants, such as in “Unsolved” & “Unstated”. The wide variety of medium is his own choice to showcase the altered lives of the ones who are affected through this storm of creating an aura, where they would feel safe and secure.
The exposed steel and concrete structure with industrial paint in “Undiscovered I”, is one-of-a-kind sculpture, where the typography has made an impact with the colors. This artwork symbolizes individuals facing tough challenges in modern society. The harsh elements represented by the industrial materials reflect the resilience and strength required to endure such difficulties. These individuals go through harsh elements which require a strong character to withstand the pressures of modern times.
Undiscovered II
The canvases in Ahmer's exhibition are equally remarkable, as the intricate details and the characteristics of textures that he has depicted is a result of a drive for the exploration through passionate and empathetic storytelling, which can lead to an eventful movement.
"Unseen", a striking piece in Ahmer's collection, which stands out with its vibrant neon green hues contrasting against the backdrop of red, evokes a range of emotions. The artist's deliberate use of red, which is typically associated with caution, suggests a warning to prevent further harm. This bold juxtaposition of colors underscores the artist's strong message on the subject matter.
In “unnoted” and “Undisclosed”, Ahmer explores the supportive relationship between people who share similar life experiences and ideas. Note that the hues in these art works are green, blue and red. The green with the same earthly tones in the background, which gives a form of assurance that they are still grounded and speak of their feelings for each other. Textures play their very vital role to enhance the depth of these works, while acrylics are used in such situations as a good choice to enhance his portrayals.
Unnoted
In “Unbox”, an old artwork from 2019, reflects Ahmer’s enduring motivation and commitment. By painting abstract designs on cardboard boxes, Ahmer highlights how marginalized groups often feel trapped, with their memories, ideas and emotions confined within. These brittle and easy to rip boxes symbolize the fragility of their experiences, easily torn and overlooked. It's a poignant reminder of the need to protect and support women, religious and ethnic minorities, and members of the queer community.
Undefined
The negotiation for self, as elaborated in this exhibition, is not a request but a basic understanding for the need to include each and every person to hail freedom from surroundings, for the matter is not disguised anymore. The impact shall remain and this conversation with self and to self will be a reflection of humanism in this era of contemporary lives.
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