Nageen Hyat, the gallery curator and founder, said, “It’s a nice idea that we could simply follow a prescribed set of rules and make the world a better place for all but it just does not work that way. The exhibition speaks volumes about the expectations placed on a woman to fit into the fixed cultural framework—it gives her a voice to redefine her parameters and make choices.”
Raza has exhibited her work in various international solo and group shows. Her specific focus on women, with their strengths and qualities, is the sublime message sent out in her paintings. All of her 10 paintings on display at the gallery bring out the essence of this thought.
“My paintings are the voice of a woman. A woman is, in face, more than her status given to her in male-dominated societies. She is strong in spirit and independent in her mind. In my paintings, she seeks freedom from the shackles of societal norms,” said the artist about her work.
The eminent artist has received the Pride of Performance award in 2008. In this body of work, she explores the mystic musings and an aura of feminism portrayed through various moods and modes of a woman’s world. Raza’s career spans over three decades. Born in Delhi, she graduated from Karachi University in Fine Arts.
Be it the glory of motherhood, the sensuous contour of a lover’s expression, the spiritual aura of her persona or the shades of her silent suffering, each of the paintings mirrors stories of pain and pleasure, anguish and ecstasy and pride and protest of women in society.
Through her work, she portrays woman as the victor, and not the victim --- celebrating the diverse aspects of womanhood. She explores the problems particular to women; the roles they play, the ambiguities of human relationships and the drama of everyday life.
Similarly, Jawed too has explored various facets of femininity, unfolding relationships as reflected in her symbolic yet powerful work. Her works are contemporary and impressionistic.
“Women have always been pivotal characters in literature, arts and poetry especially in the Indian sub-continent. In our society, it is vital and the cultural activities and virtues are not complete without their preference and presence as well,” she said.
Jawed has participated in various group shows home and abroad. Moreover, she has worked on various projects for both the private and public sectors. A graduate of the University of the Punjab, she went on to pursue a post-doctorate degree in Fine Arts.
The current exhibition will continue until October 14.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 3rd, 2014.
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