DUBAI: In keeping with the spirit of Ramadan, Dubai-based septuagenarian artist Nazar Haidri has come up with a series of Islamic art paintings.
“Ramadan is a month of devotion and this is my way of showing my love and devotion to the Almighty as I seek refuge in Him,” said the 74-year-old Pakistani expat who has created 27 Islamic paintings since the beginning of Ramadan.
Quranic verses
The paintings depict enlightening Quranic verses seeking protection, guidance, wisdom, knowledge and mercy from the Almighty.
While some works evoke the spirituality of the holy month, others express Haidri’s personal feelings and memories associated with Ramadan.
“Islamic art is vibrant and distinctive as it draws heavily from geometric patterns and calligraphy. Its strong aesthetic appeal transcends time and space, as well as differences in language and culture and my artworks are no exception,” said the retired marketing professional who has been living in Dubai for six years.
One of the first students of art classes started by the Arts Council of Pakistan in 1961, Haidri’s most famous work remains Music on Canvas, which, as the title suggests, is a tribute to music.
As you look at his most recent works, you realise that age has not diminished his sense of aesthetics nor lessened his enthusiasm and love for painting.
