A solo show by Shiblee Muneer at Art Scene Gallery was held recently in Karachi. Shiblee Muneer, a descendant of Mughal miniature painter’s family court of Patiala, Punjab, and one of Pakistan’s most well-respected and renowned contemporary painters, has yet again stunned art critics and art lovers with his recent exhibition.
Bringing forward his unique take on calligraphy, Shiblee Muneer has showcased some outstanding pieces in his current show. Intricate and detailed, his calligraphic pieces are beautiful.
The development of Islamic calligraphy is strongly tied to the Quran, as chapters and verses from the Quran are common and almost universal text upon which Islamic calligraphy is based. Islamic calligraphy is very popular part of art and architecture. Islamic calligraphy evolved primarily from two major styles, Kufic and Naksh, with numerous regional and stylistic variations.
One sees liberal use of gold and on occasion even silver leaf, set against black backgrounds, which make his work stand out. There is always something very soothing and calming about Islamic calligraphy, but Shiblee Muneer brings forward Islamic text in the most aesthetic and beautiful way leaving a lasting impression on his viewers.
The column of safety-1, gold leaf on white coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 18 x 18 inches The beliefs of security, gold leaf on black coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 24 x 36 inches The belief, silver leaf layered green color film on black coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 24 x 24 inches An emblem of devotion, gold leaf on black coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 60 x 60 inches The urge, gold leaf on black coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 24 x 36inches My Oath, gold leaf on black coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 24 x 36 inches The One, black ink on white coated canvas glazed with transparent resin, 36 x 48 inches