Tag Archives: Indian Artists

One who speaks through art

April 28, 2025Arts, Culture & EntertainmentArtists of India, Fayaz Wani, Indian Artists, Indian Muslim Artists, Indian Muslim Painters and Sculptors, Indian Muslim Sculptors, Indian Muslims, Muslim Artists of India, Muslim Artists of Jammu & Kashmir, Muslim Artists of Pulwama District, Muslim Sculptors of India, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Painters and Artists of India, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Sculptors of India, Suhail Mohammad Khan, Suhail Mohammad Khan - Artist, Suhail Mohammad Khan - Institute of Music & Fine Arts - University of Kashmirmpositiveone@gmail.com

Hanipora Village (Pulwama District), JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Hearing and speech-impaired, hardships of life never robbed this Pulwama man of his passion for art as he sculpted his way to new heights, Fayaz Wani narrates.

29-year-old Suhail Mohammad Khan / Photo | Special arrangement

Jammu :

The popular saying “where there is will, there is a way” rings true for 29-year-old Suhail Mohammad Khan, a resident of Hanipora village in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pulwama district, who has overcome his deafness and inability to speak through his art. Versatile as he is, he has mastered several different forms of art.

His hard work, determination and never-say-die attitude have made him a source of inspiration for others. An architectural designer, painter, sculptor and sketch artist, Suhail wears many hats. But his path to success has been anything but easy.

Suhail lost his ability to hear and speak when he was just a child. However, that did not diminish his passion for drawing and painting. He always enjoyed rustling up sketches and paintings of his friends. As years passed, he began to explore other forms of art, including sculpture, printmaking and cake designing, instead of confining himself to one specific genre.

After passing out of school, Suhail joined the Institute of Music and Fine Arts at University of Kashmir. His talent and passion soon earned him admiration from his peers and the artistic community.

Describing his journey as an artist, a friend of Suhail beams with pride, saying, “He is an all-rounder who can create anything in art. For him, nothing is impossible. Suhail literally speaks through his art. He does painting, sculpture, videography and photography. His work is realistic and based on creativity. Although he is deaf and dumb, his work is very realistic.”

Ask this friend if Suhail, who communicates through sign language, faces any difficulty in his everyday life because of his inability to hear or speak, and pat comes his reply: “He doesn’t need to speak or introduce himself to anybody. He speaks through his works. His art does all the talking. We must appreciate the courage and passion he has displayed in the face of adversity. After all, he is living proof that nothing is impossible and that anything can be conquered by sheer persistence.”

Contrary to the popular belief that a disability can seal one’s fate, Suhail remains way ahead of many people who are not even differently abled. He did India proud in the International Snow Sculpture Contest held in January this year in Colorado, US. Only 12 teams from the world participated in the contest. Suhail and his team toiled for four days in freezing temperatures ranging from -25 °C to -35°C to craft their sculpture.

Titled ‘Mind in Meditation’, Team India’s masterpiece stood out for its elegance and precision. India secured third position in the competition.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> The Sunday Standard / by Fayaz Wani / April 20th, 2025

Spectrum of styles on canvas of cultures marks Akbar Saheb’s art

February 24, 2025Amazing Feats, Arts & Crafts / CraftsPersons (wef. January 14th, 2025), Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, World OpinionAkbar Saheb, Artists of Bengaluru, Artists of India, Artists of Karnataka, Indian Artists, Indian Artists in Dubai, Indian Artists in UAE, Indian Muslim Artists in Dubai, Indian Muslim Artists in UAE, Indian Muslims, Indian Muslims in Dubai - UAE, Muslim Artists of Bengaluru, Muslim Artists of India, Muslim Artists of Karnataka, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Karnataka, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Karnataka, Positive Stories of Indian Muslims, Positive Stories of Muslims of Indiampositiveone@gmail.com

Bengaluru / Mumbai / Dubai, U.A.E :

A painting combats drugs.Horses displaying power in colour.

Renowned artist Akbar Saheb has been immersed in the field of art for over 50 years. He has been living and working in Dubai since 1996, and has been honoured with the Golden Visa for his many artistic achievements and exceptional creative contributions to the UAE, his adoptive country, and India, his home country.

His vast collection of artworks, inclusive now of over hundreds of paintings, spans various mediums, including those created in oil, acrylic, watercolour, and more recently, sculptures. His exhibitions extend to both global and local audiences. Among others, he has had a notable solo exhibition done in a new style he calls “Depthism” at Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai (2023).

Later, he hosted another art event in Delhi. The theme was tolerance and Akbar Saheb says that “many people, including foreigners, were mesmerised by the artworks and their creative ideation.”

In 2024, he had a solo exhibition at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club in Dubai. “It was a huge highlight of my creative career,” says Akbar Saheb. His artistic prowess has transcended borders, earning him recognition from the Indian government also. He has been invited to participate in governmental initiatives, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat (Conversations of the Mind) book.

He was the only artist selected to illustrate the volume; it won him recognition in the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) and with the public also, during the official launch of the volume. In 2022, he showcased his artwork in 6 solo exhibitions held across India, supported by the Indian Prime Minister’s Office. The shows were held in Ahmedabad, Baroda, Surat, Rajkot, Delhi and Varanasi; they were attended by many VIPs. Akbar created a collection of 55 paintings which served as platforms that presented India’s progress and the transformative impact of Mann Ki Baat initiatives.

Akbar Saheb in a contemplative mood.

The seeds of Akbar’s artistic journey were sown at the tender age of seven. Despite the absence of significant family support, he diligently pursued his passion for art. He began by crafting shop signboards and assisting college students with biology drawings, to finance his sketching material. Years later, his creative flair propelled him to leading advertising agencies, where he specialised in illustration with airbrush techniques. His dedication to art ultimately took him from India’s Bangalore and Mumbai, where he worked in major companies, to Dubai.

His paintings, especially those of horses, feature a bold use of colour and a fearless instinct to show movement. The firm brushstrokes are the vectors of the energy, vitality and dynamism of the animals. The pictures bring memories of the work of Indian artist M. F. Husain, whose horses too portrayed majesty and power.

Akbar Saheb is not merely an artist; he is a compassionate soul with a deep commitment to humanity, particularly towards children with disabilities. Through specialised painting classes and international collaborations, he empowers the children to express their artistry. “I strive to inspire children to embrace art, fill their minds with colours, and explore the world through creativity,” he says.

He has launched painting classes and charitable projects for disabled children, providing them a space for artistic expression and has also auctioned paintings for donations and charity. In an interview, Akbar shared his experience working with the children. “Engaging with these children and witnessing their resilience and creativity is truly humbling,” he said. “They inspire me and remind me of the beauty and strength within each person. Through such efforts, I hope to inspire others too to support and uplift special children, as they live their life and pursue art. Together, we can create a more inclusive and caring society.”

A composition by Akbar Saheb..

Alongside art sessions, the activities he initiates are aimed at raising resources for the development of children with special needs. His aim is to provide them with the necessary assets, materials and educational opportunities to nurture and develop their artistic talent. Investing in their growth, he believes, can create a future where every child, regardless of his or her ability, can thrive and contribute to the community.

Akbar’s extensive portfolio showcases an eclectic array of creative concepts, themes and styles – he has exhibited his works worldwide. “Recently,” he says, “I was invited to do live painting during the Gold Cup final at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. Both the teams involved played well; it was an intense match and ended in a tie. But finally, the UAE Polo team broke through, winning the final. My painting was gifted to the winning team for their amazing performance and playing skills!”

A painting titled Black Money.

Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was the Patron of the event, for the sixth time, and also led the winning UAE team. Sheikha Maitha was the first woman from the UAE to represent the country in the Olympics, in 2008.

Akbar Saheb is known to numerous celebrities and prominent people; many of them own his paintings. He has produced multiple works depicting the UAE’s culture, and the growth of the country. The 18×7 foot, 50 year golden jubilee painting; paintings on Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; plus over 50 paintings on UAE culture, are among his prized creations. His works range from commissions given by well-known individuals, to paintings done for his own satisfaction. Themes include horses, polo, history and culture and human existence, among others.

source: http://www.gulftoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> Culture / by Muhammad Yusuf, Features Editor / February 24th, 2025

Wajid Khan: An artist’s unique obsession with Mahatma Gandhi

October 5, 2024Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Business & Economy, Community Involvement / Social Issues, Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), World OpinionIndian Artists, Indian Artists with Guinness Records, Indian Muslim Guinness Record Holders, Indian Muslim Patent holders, Indian Muslims, Madhya Pradesh Muslims, Muslim Patent Holders of India, Muslim Sculptors of India, Muslims of India, Muslims of India - Positive News, Muslims of Madhya Pradesh, Muslims of Madhya Pradesh in Arts and Crafts, Positive News of Indian Muslims, Positive News of Muslims of India, Positive News of Muslims of Madhya Pradesh, Positive Stories of Muslims of India, Wajid Khan, Wajid Khan - Artist - Madhya Pradesh, Wajid Khan - Sculptormpositiveone@gmail.com

MADHYA PRADESH :

Wajid Khan Artist with the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi he made with nails.

Few artists are as passionately obsessed with Mahatma Gandhi as Wajid Khan, whose love and reverence for Gandhi manifest in extraordinary ways through his art. Wajid’s devotion to the Father of the Nation is evident not only in the subjects of his artwork but also in the innovative techniques he uses to create them. Whether by assembling nails, arranging goggles, or using other unconventional materials, Wajid Khan’s portrayal of Gandhi is a testament to his deep admiration.

Gandhi ji art by Wajid Khan #shorts

Wajid Khan a multifaceted artist—a portraitist, sculptor, inventor, and patent holder—known for pushing the boundaries of traditional art. He specializes in creating intricate works of art using unconventional materials such as iron nails, bullets, metal, stones, automobile parts, medical equipment, iron rods, and more. His passion for creativity is boundless, and his art often reflects his deep emotions and thoughts about the world and the figures who have shaped it.

Among his many talents, Wajid’s ability to carve canvases using iron nails has garnered international acclaim. His work has earned him places in prestigious records such as the Guinness Book of World Records, Limca Book of Records, and Asia Book of Records. His artistic prowess is admired from Mumbai to Dubai, captivating both art connoisseurs and the general public with his exceptional nail art.

Although Wajid has made portraits of numerous iconic personalities, including Indira Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Dhirubhai Ambani, and Nelson Mandela, his fascination with Mahatma Gandhi stands out. His first portrait, fittingly, was of Gandhi—a powerful expression of his love and passion for the man who led India to independence. Wajid meticulously used thousands of iron nails to craft this portrait, each nail symbolizing the unwavering dedication and perseverance Gandhi embodied throughout his life.

Wajid’s connection to Gandhi goes beyond artistic inspiration. His admiration for Gandhi stems from the values of patience and truth that Gandhi represented. “There are many qualities in Gandhiji that impressed me deeply,” Wajid shared in an interview. “His power of patience and his commitment to truth are what stand out the most. For me, those who hold onto patience and never lie are truly great individuals.”

One of the moments that left an indelible mark on Wajid was when he visited a museum and saw letters written by Gandhi in which the leader openly admitted his mistakes. “It takes a big heart to admit one’s mistakes in public,” Wajid reflected. “I greatly admire Gandhi’s patience and steadfastness.”

Wajid’s connection to Gandhi also has personal roots. He fondly recalls stories from his grandfather, who would attend Gandhi’s meetings during the freedom movement in India. “My grandfather used to tell us about the time when he was very young and would participate in Gandhi’s meetings. Enthusiastic crowds would gather to listen to Gandhi, and when they returned, they were always calm and composed,” Wajid recounted. The calm demeanor Gandhi inspired in his followers left a profound impact on Wajid, influencing both his life and his art.

In one of his most ambitious projects, Wajid demonstrated the extent of his dedication to honoring Gandhi. He organized an event where 6,000 people were gathered in a stadium, carefully arranged in a formation that created a massive portrait of Gandhi. This live depiction showcased not only Wajid’s artistic genius but also his ability to bring people together to celebrate Gandhi’s legacy.

Wajid Khan’s artistic journey is a remarkable blend of creativity, innovation, and an unyielding devotion to Gandhi’s principles. Through his portraits, sculptures, and inventive techniques, he continues to keep the spirit of Gandhi alive, inspiring others with the same values of patience, truth, and perseverance that Gandhi embodied.

source: http://www.muslimmirror.com / Muslim Mirror / Home> Indian Muslim> Positive Story / by Syed Zubair Ahmad / October 02nd, 2024

The Awe-Inspiring Wildlife Drawings of Shaikh Zain ud-Din

October 1, 2023Amazing Feats, Arts, Culture & Entertainment, Books (incl.Biographies - w.e.f.01 jan 2018 ), Inventions, Innovations (wef. Nov 30th, 2021), Museums, Libraries (wef. April 16th, 2022), World Opinion18th Century Indian Muslim Artists, Artists of India, Indian Artists, Indian Muslim Artists, Indian Muslims, Indian Muslims Positive Story, Muslim Artists of India, Shaikh Zain Ud Din, Zain Ud Dinmpositiveone@gmail.com

Patna, BIHAR (BRITISH INDIA) :

An 18th-century album of India’s flora and fauna showcases the startling work of an overlooked master.

Bird — Shaikh Zain ud-Din’s *Brahminy Starling with Two Antheraea Moths, Caterpillar, and Cocoon on an Indian Jujube Tree* was originally part of an album commissioned by his British patrons. © Minneapolis Institute of Art

In the late 1770s, a British colonial official named Sir Elijah Impey and his wife, Lady Mary, commissioned the Indian artist Shaikh Zain ud-Din to catalog a private menagerie, including various bird species, the couple had assembled at their home in Calcutta. Using paper and watercolors from England, Zain ud-Din, a Muslim from the city of Patna, modeled his work after English botanical illustration, but he also brought to the job his training in the ornate Mughal artistic tradition—and his own distinctive style. Today critics praise the quality of the colors and the composition, in which a bright, simple background offsets the keenly wrought details of plants and animals. “Everything is incredibly precise and beautifully observant,” says Xavier Bray, director of London’s Wallace Collection, which this month mounts the first UK exhibition of works by Indian artists commissioned by officers of the British East India Company.

The expat aristocrats who patronized Zain ud-Din and his fellow artists had been sent abroad to help manage their country’s growing empire, but once there many, like the Impeys, fell in love with the subcontinent, as well as its flora and fauna. “These paintings,” Bray says, “were made into albums to be leafed through back home, on a rainy day, drinking Earl Grey tea.”

History failed to record much about Zain ud-Din’s life beyond his watercolors for the Impeys. But the new show, which includes 99 paintings of nature studies, portraits and landscapes by 18 artists, makes an argument that he and his contemporaries should be recognized on their own merits, as some of India’s greatest painters. “Anything with a colonial air about it is now considered politically incorrect,” Bray says. “But what we’re trying to do is bring back these extraordinary artists who have been almost completely forgotten.”