This week You! talks to Mahwish Khan, who creatively fuses math and spirituality in her one-of-a-kind artwork...
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Art and spirituality are like two intertwined threads, each enriching the other in a dance of creativity and profound meaning. Through art, the intangible aspects of spirituality find form, allowing emotions and beliefs to be expressed in ways that words alone cannot capture. For Mahwish Khan, a Karachi-based artist, this connection is at the heart of her work. With a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Karachi and a unique blend of mathematical precision and deep spirituality, she transforms simple dots into intricate narratives that explore the Divine. Her journey from a science enthusiast to an artist deeply connected with her faith is as inspiring as it is unconventional. Through her art, Mahwish invites viewers to embark on their own spiritual exploration, offering a visual experience that resonates on both intellectual and emotional levels…
What inspired you to begin your journey in art?
Art has always been my first love, even when I was a science student. In school, I often found myself doodling during lectures, and mixing colours fascinated me. Watching art shows on TV fuelled my passion further. Although I performed well in science, I knew deep down that art was where I belonged. The decision to switch from science to Fine Arts was a game-changer in my life. It wasn’t easy, but it was the right choice, leading me to a life filled with creativity and colour.
How did your education shape your art?
My education at Karachi University was pivotal in shaping my style. Under the guidance of Mehreen Zuberi, I was introduced to conceptual art and minimalism, which liberated my creative instincts. I learned to express complex concepts through simple, elegant forms - a style that defines my work today. My time at university was a period of intense growth, laying the foundation for the artist I’ve become.
Your art combines math and spirituality. How did that come about?
Combining math with spirituality felt natural to me, as I’ve always been drawn to numbers and patterns, along with a deep spiritual connection. During my thesis, I merged these interests into my style of mathematical calligraphy. My process is precise - I start with a numeric value from the name of Allah, multiply it by 19 for spiritual significance, and sometimes add another layer of calculation. This creates a balance between mathematical precision and emotional depth, making my work meaningful and resonant.
Why focus on the dot (Nuqta) in your work?
The dot (Nuqta) is a powerful symbol in Islamic art and philosophy. It represents the starting point of creation, the essence of everything that exists. In my work, the dot signifies the purity and simplicity of a true spiritual connection. It’s a reminder that the most profound truths are often the simplest. By focusing on the Nuqta, I aim to convey that all of creation stems from a single point and that our spiritual journey is about returning to that point of purity.
How does your spirituality influence your creative process?
Spirituality is at the core of my creative process. My art reflects my spiritual beliefs and connection with the divine. Creating feels like a meditative process - each stroke, each pattern expresses my thoughts on spirituality. The names of Allah and the concepts they represent, often inspire my work. Through my art, I aim to translate these reflections into visual forms that resonate with others, offering a moment of contemplation.
Can you tell us about your recent solo show ‘UNEESS-19’?
‘UNEESS-19’ was a significant milestone in my career. The number 19 has a special place in Islamic numerology, symbolising the oneness of Allah. My show at Sanat Initiative explored this concept. Despite graduating during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was determined to make this show happen. It was an incredible experience to showcase my work to a wider audience and receive positive feedback.
Which exhibition has been the most memorable for you?
My most memorable exhibition was my first group show, ‘17-Emerging Talent’ at VM Art Gallery. It marked my debut in the art world, and the experience was exhilarating. I remember the excitement of seeing my work displayed alongside other emerging artists. A renowned art collector praised my work during this show, giving me the confidence to continue pursuing my passion. That exhibition marked the beginning of my journey as a professional artist.
How do you choose themes for your exhibitions?
Themes for my exhibitions are usually suggested by curators but align well with my vision. For instance, themes like ‘The Emergents’ or ‘Personal Narratives’ allow me to explore my ideas within a certain context. While I appreciate guidance from curators, I ensure my work stays true to my style and message. Each theme allows me to dive deeper into concepts and present them meaningfully and engagingly.
What challenges have you faced as an emerging artist?
I’ve been fortunate in my journey. My experience has been relatively smooth, with strong support from the art community. However, balancing my personal life with my career, especially as a new mother, has been difficult. I’ve taken on these challenges with faith and perseverance, always keeping in mind that every hurdle is an opportunity to grow.
How has showcasing your work in different cities influenced you?
Exhibiting my work in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad has been enriching. Each city has its own unique art scene and audience, and showcasing my work in these environments has broadened my perspective. The feedback I’ve received has helped me grow. It’s also humbling to see how deeply people connect with my work, reinforcing my belief in the universal language of art.
How do you stay inspired and motivated?
Art is a spiritual practice. My motivation comes from my connection with the divine and my desire to express that connection. I find inspiration in my daily life, interactions with people, and reflections on spirituality. When working on a piece, I immerse myself fully in the process, allowing the creative energy to flow naturally.
What future projects are you excited about?
I’m currently exploring new ideas involving colours, geometric patterns, and different surfaces. I’ve been experimenting with new techniques and materials, and I’m eager to see where these experiments lead. I’m also planning to work on a new series that will explore spirituality and mathematical precision. These projects are still in the early stages, but I’m excited about the possibilities.
What advice would you give to young artists?
My advice to young artists is simple: be authentic. In a world full of noise, it’s easy to get lost trying to emulate others or follow trends. But true art comes from within, expressing your truth and unique perspective. Focus on honing your craft and finding your voice. Once you find it, let it shine through in your work, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries and explore new ideas.
What message do you hope people take from your art?
I hope people find spiritual healing and a sense of hope in my art. I want my work to be a reminder that there’s beauty in simplicity and that science and art are interconnected in enriching ways. Through my art, I aim to inspire people to look beyond the surface and explore deeper meanings behind the patterns and symbols. I hope my work resonates on a spiritual level, offering a moment of reflection and peace.
