An exhibition of wonderful miniature paintings by Syed Najam-ul-Hasan Kazmi, an exceptionally talented artist and recipient of the ‘Tamgha-e-Imtiaz’, opened at Nomad Art Gallery here on Thursday with Senator Salim Saifullah formally inaugurating the show.
The artist, who is known for his traditionalist miniature paintings based on the Mughal School has, for a pleasant surprise, successfully experimented with playful images, contemporary topics, and even new mediums. Kazmi has juxtaposed the traditional with the modern; ethereal trees, which cannot be categorised as traditional Mughal miniatures serve as the backdrop for images of royal gatherings. The exhibition also includes experimental works on various surfaces like ‘chhaal’ (the bark of a tree), ‘wasli,’ and board along side the natural mediums, which he himself creates from resources like stones, leaves, vegetables and herbs. The artist has also used handmade paper with tee and coffee stains. Moreover, he has also worked in relief, which is a totally new technique and texture for him. This is the first time that any artist has used relief in miniature.
“Kazmi is highly respected for his excellent renditions and commitment to his field of choice. Having lived in Srinagar, Kashmir, for 17 years where he received his earlier training, his gem-like paintings and artistic attributes are commendable and high appreciated by art connoisseurs,” the gallery’s director Nageen Hyat said at the exhibition’s preview. Kazmi has been regularly exhibiting his work at Nomad for years now. There are, in all, 28 paintings on display, and each has a class of its own. Two paintings that merit special attention are of Taj Mahal in the making and Noah’s Ark. Kazmi has also worked on the theme of violence against women. “Some time back, we conducted a workshop on the subject with 20 artists participating. We questioned the participants about what violence against women means to
them. After the discussion, they were asked to translate their thoughts on canvas. Kazmi’s work, which was about a women being a mother figure, was an exceptional piece. You will find the same theme here today,” Nageen explained.
Kazmi has participated in numerous solo and group shows at home and abroad. Even though miniature painting is his forte, he also excels in papier mache, a Kashmir art, which he promotes with a passion to promote. The artist has worked very hard, and has reached a point where he commands a lot of respect and admiration for his dedication.
