Karachi has no shortage of art galleries, but a space dedicated to a single artist’s journey is something special....
museum
Karachi has no shortage of art galleries, but a space dedicated to a single artist’s journey is something special. Displaying paintings is only part of the experience - this gallery invites you to step into a story, a life, and a creative force that shaped the country’s art scene. That’s exactly what the newly opened tribute to Ismail Gulgee offers.
Walking in, I felt an immediate shift in energy - as if I had stepped into an artist’s mind, where colours, textures, and emotions all swirled together. The space was alive, buzzing with guests admiring the artworks and soaking in the legacy of a visionary whose impact on Pakistani art remains unparalleled. His home, now transformed into an artistic haven, carries the weight of decades of expression, each room offering a glimpse into his world.
This transformation has been a labour of love. Over the past two years, careful planning ensured that every element reflects his creative spirit. The layout goes beyond showcasing paintings - it tells a story. With over 170 works spread across 13 rooms and two floors, the collection covers everything from early pieces in the 1950s to later works in 2007. Every hallway, every turn, reveals a different aspect of his artistic evolution.
What sets this space apart is how it engages visitors. The collection is divided into 17 sections, each thoughtfully curated to highlight a particular theme. Descriptive wall texts guide visitors through each section, and for added accessibility, QR codes provide Urdu translations. The effort to make the experience immersive and interactive ensures that everyone, whether an art enthusiast or a curious onlooker, can connect with the work in a meaningful way.
His mastery over various mediums is on full display. Iconic ‘lapis lazuli’ mosaics shimmer under the gallery lights, each piece meticulously crafted with precision. His sketches and portraits draw you in, capturing expressions and emotions with a few swift strokes. Large-scale oil paintings, bold and expressive, showcase his signature techniques, where movement and texture bring canvases to life.
Among the most fascinating sections is the area dedicated to his experimentation with calligraphy and abstract expressionism. The fusion of traditional forms with contemporary techniques makes his work stand out - deeply rooted in culture yet innovative in execution. The brushstrokes, the layering of colours, and the depth - everything speaks of an artist who pushed boundaries while staying connected to his heritage.
Beyond the artwork itself, the gallery offers a rare look into his life through archival photographs and video interviews. Black-and-white images capture moments of the artist presenting his work to world leaders, attending exhibitions, and working in his studio. In the videos, he speaks about his inspirations, his methods, and his journey, adding a deeply personal element to the experience. It’s one thing to admire an artist’s work; it’s another to hear their voice and witness their passion first-hand.
More than a place to admire paintings, this cultural space is designed to be a hub for education and discussion. Future plans include free guided tours for students, ensuring that young minds are introduced to Pakistan’s artistic heritage in an engaging way. A rooftop space has been set aside for cultural discussions and interactive sessions, encouraging dialogue on art, creativity, and its place in society.
The physical transformation of the building is just as impressive as the collection itself. Working alongside architect Samina Anjarwalla, the redesign maintains the essence of the original home while incorporating modern elements to enhance the visitor experience. The seamless transition between the main gallery and the adjoining contemporary art space allows past and present to coexist, ensuring that while the master’s legacy is honoured, creativity continues to thrive.
Moving through the rooms, I noticed how each space had a distinct atmosphere. Some felt intimate, with soft lighting and intricate pieces that required closer observation. Others were grand, with towering paintings demanding attention. The layout encourages visitors to slow down, take in each piece, and experience the evolution of his work over time.
The curation ensures that visitors leave with a full understanding of his artistic range and influence. Whether it’s the precision of early portraits, the depth of calligraphic works, or the dynamism of abstract pieces, each section highlights different facets of his genius. The collection celebrates technical mastery while also revealing the emotions and philosophies that shaped his work.
As the evening came to a close and guests slowly made their way out, there was a lingering sense of awe. This place is a gallery, but also a journey through years of creativity and the lasting impact of one artist. It stands as a place where art, history, and storytelling come together, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire for years to come.
For those who have yet to visit, prepare to be transported into a world where colours speak, textures tell stories, and every corner holds a piece of artistic brilliance. The doors are open, inviting everyone to step inside and become part of the story.
