An exhibition of landscapes and cityscapes painted by Lahore-based artist Zulfiqar Ali Zulfi opened at Tanzara Art Gallery here on Friday.

The exhibition offers 34 masterpieces by Zulfi, a realist artist whose paintings are more than an imitation of what is visible to the naked eye.

“Zulfi has the magic of capturing the essence of the vignette that he replicates on canvas. Beyond realism, he understands his subject matter well — be it a rustic scene, or an urban setting, misty horizons, or cattle out in the open fields, the artist renders such images with amazing dexterity,” the gallery’s director, Noshi Qadir, stated at the exhibition’s opening.

“Zulfi’s paintings take their inspiration from a direct observation of nature. He uses a rich palette that brings a pictorial richness to his canvas. Zulfi’s imagery is idyllic and delightful. He is a master of capturing seasons and times of day. In his landscapes, one can truly feel the breeze and smell the grass. The foggy winter morning scenes are cold and the sunny landscapes warm and brilliant. To carefully observe a Zulfi painting is to be there!” the exhibition’s invitation card entices viewers with a statement.

“I am a self-made person. I joined the National College of Arts in 1986 and passed out in 1990, with a Masters degree in Fine Arts. Without any delay, I got a job at Al-Hamra as programme officer, but along with that, I kept painting which was my passion. It has been 24 years now that I am serving this institution,” Zulfi maintained.

The artist further said, “Cityscapes and landscapes are my specialties; oil painting is my area of expertise; and light and shade is my area of interest.”

Zulfi has thus far participated in 60 group exhibitions and 7 solo shows. The artist is also a recipient of the President’s Pride of Performance Award. The exhibition will continue at Tanzara Art Gallery, House 14, Street 12, F-7/2, till February 20.

Source: http://www.thenews.com.pk/

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