BEYOND THE CANVAS: MUZAFFAR ALI’S ARTISTIC JOURNEY by Team ACF
None other can delineate a horse as Muzaffar Ali does. In his fanciful ideation, he says, “A horse is a celebration of time, energy, and speed. It is a darvesh in equine form.” Yes, you heard it right. He is the master of numerous arts, the multi-talented Muzaffar Ali.
A Multi-Faceted Artistic Journey
Throughout his magnificent career spanning over four decades, Muzaffar Ali has donned many hats—artist, filmmaker, poet, fashion designer, cultural revivalist, social worker, and, more recently, a brilliant sculptor. Hailing from a royal lineage in Kotwara, Awadh, Muzaffar Ali inherits an unparalleled aesthetic and exquisite proficiency in storytelling through his art.
His creative expression is wide-ranging, encompassing horses, landscapes, vintage automobiles, and more. Ali has a distinctive way of portraying these subjects with passion and insight, beautifully capturing the hidden language of textures. Every piece speaks to the viewer, inviting them to experience the story beyond the visual.
Muzaffar Ali perceives all his work through a cinematic lens, blending fantasy and romance to create immersive sensory experiences that leave a lasting impression.
FARASNAMA: Legend of the Horse
One of the highlights of his ongoing exhibitions is FARASNAMA: Legend of the Horse, which is highly anticipated. This series showcases his deep love for horses, with sketches that intricately capture the grace and power of this magnificent animal. His works reveal the emotional bond he shares with the subject and invite viewers into his world.
The intuitive dreamer that he is, Ali is also showcasing a limited edition metalwork collection named BARAK, named after his beloved horse. Ali wanted to share this unique collection with art lovers worldwide, allowing them a glimpse into the soul of his art.
A Diverse Artistic Showcase
Among the many pieces on display, Zooni Portraits is a standout, offering a rare look at Ali’s masterful attention to detail and intimate portrayal of the world around him. EQUUS, a larger series in the exhibition, further explores the theme of the horse, emphasizing movement, form, and expression in stunning visual compositions.
Muzaffar Ali also unveils his newly calibrated calligraphy work, a treat for art admirers who are keen to explore the symbiosis between text and texture in his art.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition is curated by Uma Nair and beautifully designed by his wife, Meera Ali. This highly anticipated exhibition is open for viewing until October 28, 2023, at Bikaner House, New Delhi.
Richa Arora
Contributor