Written by: Muhammad Hamza
Posted on: February 12, 2025 | 
| 中文
Untitled by Nazir Hunzai
In this fine exhibition at Satrang Gallery, Islamabad, two artists, Nazir Hunzai and Faten Suleman, are hosted, curated by Zahra Khan and assisted by Asna Waseem. The exhibition features various motifs from the contemporary world as seen through Nazir’s perspective, alongside Faten’s personal experiences of motherhood. Both artists live their lives intertwined, sharing personal views about the world around them, captured in sculpted pieces, paintings and stationary installations.
As portrayed by both artists, they have managed to capture the true essence of hardship and the reality of being able to convey a meaningful language, highlighting their roles in this life.
A sculptor and painter, Nazir’s point of view revolves around the monotony of the contemporary world, where one often finds no freedom to engage in creative conversations or grow alongside the process of self-development. It triggers his imagination when there’s a hindrance to cognitive harmony, when one is not free to express themselves in their own skin.
Nazir’s works share a harmonious tone of expression, where his sculptures speak of the shackles that bind individuals, preventing them from moving forward with the direction desired by their mind and body. The environmental impact is strong enough to halt their natural existence. ‘Under Construction’ showcases this concept, where personal growth is halted. Industrial constraints have already been imposed, conquering human labor and directing them to live in a prescribed manner, a flawed strategy for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Under Construction for Nazir Hunzai
‘The Weight of Dreams’ is a powerful visual representation of what dreaming in modern society feels like. It is heartbreaking to see how dreams are lost and forgotten over time, even if they were once alive. The harsh realities of the modern world have killed the drive of individuals who once dreamed for themselves and created their own notion of existence. The existential crisis is imposed by the powers that feed and pay us. Nazir has given the artwork worthy recognition through detailed miniature strokes, and the figure stands out clearly.
Nazir draws inspiration from the Venus of Willendorf in his work. The figures in his drawings are simple yet full of expression through their body language, creating imagery tied by the collar or holding something below the waist. The figures are intricately connected to one another.
Untitled by Nazir Hunzai
Un-Tied (Diptych) is crafted using ink and graphite on paper. The stationary pose of the figure captures the exhaustion and confusion of modern life. The figure is stuck with a clock, with no way out. Nazir emphasizes these details to help viewers better understand the concept. His other sculpted works explore the same theme of monotony and limited freedom in life. Nazir’s representation successfully engages and immerses the audience in a deeper understanding of these concepts.
“I am not just an artist; I am a mother,” exclaims Faten. Life after having a child is never the same—it’s a loving labor of heart and soul, filled with imperfections and rawness in every creation made. Her interpretation of a child is depicted as a monkey, always clinging to its mother, never leaving her side, and never allowing her peace. The paintings represent the most important aspects of parenthood, capturing both the learning and evolution that come with it.
Untitled by Faten Suleman
Faten has made her audience visualize the emotional journey of growing with a child. One learns to appreciate the art of life, while also encountering the rawness of existence through deliberately distorted imagery. A recurring motif in her work is the monkey, symbolizing various aspects of motherhood in all its forms and shapes.
‘Monkey See, Monkey Squish’ is an accurate representation of the burdened body and mind of a mother, piled with duties to keep everything in place. The figure is shown helplessly supporting and balancing the aftermath of having a child. Faten’s creation evokes a soulful yet beautiful array of emotions, allowing the audience to walk through the experience of a woman’s duties as a mother.
Monkey See, Monkey Squish by Faten Suleman
Untitled (Mother Figure with a Sword) is a masterpiece by Faten, where she portrays herself with the power and stamina to carry a child while also fighting to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Despite the imperfections inherent in the journey, the mother becomes a superhero for her child. Her shoulders serve as the foundation for the child’s growth, and she wears a shield of love and support for her child, symbolized by the monkey. The strength of a mother is a divine gift, especially for those in this role.
Untitled by Faten Suleman
In this context, both Nazir and Faten have beautifully engaged with the classic example of life after giving birth to a child, and how this experience has shaped their respective journeys. Reality hits hard, and it’s a profound lesson that parents must learn and evolve through. Though humans evolve through distinct timelines, everyone’s journey is unique and each individual crafts their own path to survive and thrive in the moment.
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