Introduction

Art in Pakistan has a long history of providing a unique commentary on social issues and pushing boundaries. However, like in many countries, the art market often remains curated and exclusive, catering primarily to the privileged elite, which results in a limited range of themes, styles, and aesthetics. In this context, the Pakistan Art Forum (PAF), established in 2014, emerges as aiming to democratise the art scene in Pakistan.

PAF: A Platform for Inclusive Art

The Pakistan Art Forum chose a novel approach to break down the traditional gatekeepers of the country’s art scene. Initially, it leveraged social media and digital platforms to showcase eclectic and inclusive artists and styles. However, the pandemic spurred further innovation, with PAF establishing a physical address that serves as a safe space for artists to explore themes that challenge the norm, such as queer and LGBTQ identity politics, sexuality, and patriarchy.

Imtisal Zafar, the founder of PAF, emphasises the importance of art as a tool for highlighting social issues. He states, “Throughout the ages, art has been a medium of reform, resistance, used to highlight various social dilemmas.”

Empowering Women Through Art

In Pakistan, where human rights violations against women persist, artists are increasingly denouncing the patriarchal social system. Shehzil Malik, an artist renowned both locally and internationally, depicts powerful Pakistani women and femininity in her work, addressing the everyday and structural misogyny faced by women.

Another emerging artist, Zainab Aziz, takes a different approach, focusing on the mundane with her signature style, characterised by a monochromatic palette and large voids in her representations. Through black-and-white contrasts, Aziz highlights social hypocrisy and tells the stories hidden within the female body.

Aziz acknowledges the support she received from institutions like Pakistan’s College of Art & Design and the National College of Arts but laments the lack of connections for young artists to break through. She credits the Pakistan Art Forum as a vital platform for supporting emerging talents and helping them gain exposure and sell their work.

Challenging Taboos: LGBTQ Representation

In a country where same-sex sexual acts are prohibited by law, the LGBTQ community often leads double lives. Artist Ahmer Farooq courageously tackles LGBTQ issues in his art, shedding light on the pressure faced by gay individuals to enter forced heterosexual marriages to maintain a facade of “normalcy.”

Farooq’s work sometimes faces resistance from galleries and the press due to the sensitive nature of the subject. However, he appreciates that PAF has consistently showcased his art without censorship or modification, allowing him to freely express his concepts.

Farooq’s vibrant and visually striking art reflects the complexity of a society that may appear bright on the surface but conceals darker truths beneath. His recent exhibition, “A Safe Space,” has garnered significant local and international attention, highlighting the importance of safe spaces for marginalised communities.

While his work confronts the challenges faced by the queer community, Farooq reminds us that it also speaks to our shared humanity and desires for security, love, peace, and empathy.

In a country where discussing homosexuality openly can result in legal consequences, the Pakistan Art Forum stands as a beacon of inclusivity and a platform for artists to challenge societal norms and promote dialogue on pressing issues. Through art, PAF provides a space for diverse voices and perspectives to flourish and be heard in Pakistan’s evolving cultural landscape.

Feature Image: A painting by artist Shehzil Malik depicting women who are powerful and confident  courtesy: Shehzil Malik

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