
Farid Alam
Hometown: Karachi
Based in: Karachi
Hometown: Karachi
Based in: Karachi
I began my formal art training studying graphic design at the Fine Arts Dept. Punjab University, Lahore. Served the advertising industry for more than 30 years leaving in 2016 as a Creative Director Design at JWT, Karachi. Although I’ve been painting off and on during all this period but my full devotion and thrust in the work came from the day I departed the advertising world.
Since my school days geometry remained one of my favourite subjects. I have always been attracted to this form of art because of its main ingredient – the crisp and neat simple lines turning into unending magical formations. When I started out as an art student I was looking closely at the art, artefacts, and architecture of both western and non-western cultures. While living in Lahore, Pakistan – a city rich in culture and history I had all the opportunities to visit, see and feel attracted to the beauty of Islamic art, architecture and geometry in details. The simplified beauty of a single geometric form always allured me to create something exciting and different with a refreshing modern twist. In each of my paintings you'll come across a symmetrical, proportional and balanced arrangement of recognisable shapes coming together, generating a myriad of stunning designs that captivate the viewer with a kaleidoscope of visual interest. An interesting manipulation of vibrant colours and light makes my work pop out as a stunning piece of art.
What inspires you?
I have always been attracted to abstract geometric art. When I started out as an art student I was looking closely at the art, artefacts, and architecture of both western and non-western cultures. The simplified beauty of a single geometric form always allured me to create something exciting and different with a refreshing modern twist.
Describe your creative process.
My paintings are a result of a three-part process that develops as it goes along. Line is my main ingredient, either straight or curved. Next, I scan that module and transfer the image onto the computer repeating, reversing or transposing, looking for interesting design manipulations in terms of colours and visual appeal before settling down on the canvas for final execution. The principal aspect of my painting technique revolves around careful registration of precisely defined areas of colour against one another. The pigment has to be absolutely flat and opaque.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Therapeutic, Modern, Abstract.
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Frank Stella, Victor Vasarely, Rashid Arain.
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
Ruler and a pencil.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
A balanced design and strong composition.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Observing the magical arrangement of stained glass windows and walls of Alhambra. Tilework of Morocco. Geometric paintings and architecture of different cultures.
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Exhibitions
Parallel Lines
Pakistan, 2019
Parallel Lines
Pakistan, 2019