Shakir Ali postage stamp

Shakir Ali (1916-1975)

Shakir Ali, born in Rampur of undivided India in 1916 received his early art education at the J.J. School of Art Bombay and later at the Slade School of Art, London, in France with Andre L 'Hote, and in Prague, before he came to Pakistan. He began by painting in the style of Braque, making bulls' heads and still life in a Cubist manner. Later, found his own style in which human figures, horses and cattle in a few bold, powerful lines. There was masterly economy in his style and tremendous force in his line. The distortion of the natural form was based on a close study of nature. Shaker Ali is acknowledged as the founder of Modern art in Pakistan, and he introduced the philosophy and developments in art to generation of young artist. His position as teacher gave him a special opportunity to influence the young artists of Lahore. Moreover, his friendly nature brought him in touch with a large section of the cultural world, his persuasive and sincere manner of talking helped him to bring round the young artists to his manner of thinking.Once a discussion with artists and art critics Shakir Ali said, "I am not totally abstract. This is a period of symbolism. Every artist passes through this period and I think I am also passing through this period. Similarly the moon and flowers which shine equally all over the world, symbolized universality". He was also of the opinion that "Each one of us is born with a bird, free unfettered, reaching out for the infinite. But owing to the prejudices of our civilization, the restriction of our families and the superimposition of convention, that bird is caged and loss its notes of freedom. I am trying to find that bird in men. And if I do, I will pass it on. That bird will go right from me to you".Shakir Ali was one of the first artists to explore calligraphy in a painterly style. He died on January 27, 1975, few days after he attended the funeral of Abdur Rahman Chughtai. He was awarded President's Award for the Pride of Performance in 1967 and Sitara-e-lmtiaz in 1971.