Held in Motion exhibition opens at Sanat Art Gallery in Lahore

KARACHI: Sanat Art Gallery has launched a new exhibition titled “Held in Motion”, showcasing the works of emerging artists who explore the complexities of human identity, memory, and everyday experiences. The exhibition, which opened earlier this week with a reception, will run until April 16.

The show features contributions from Behzad Ahmed Warsi, Laiba Abid, Ronaque Ali, and Shahzad Baloch, presenting a wide spectrum of styles—from realistic portrayals of daily life to conceptual and abstract pieces that reflect emotional and social layers.

Lahore-based artist Laiba Abid shared that her work focuses on the different ways individuals present themselves in varying contexts. “We are not the same in every situation. At home, in public, or with friends, we show different sides of ourselves. My paintings reflect this fluidity, which is why they appear blurred or fragmented,” she explained. Abid has displayed four oil-on-canvas works, each exploring shifting identities through soft, layered forms.

Another artist, Ronaque Ali, draws inspiration from memory and nostalgia. Using watercolours, he has created six pieces that capture fading rural traditions and everyday scenes from his village. “These paintings are about moments that are vanishing—the way people used to gather, listen to the radio, or simply spend time together,” Ali said. He added that art serves as a bridge between personal experiences and universal understanding, connecting viewers with emotions that resonate across communities.

The exhibition also highlights contrasts in style, from detailed, lifelike depictions to symbolic and dreamlike compositions, encouraging audiences to reflect on identity, memory, and social change. Curators noted that the exhibition aims to provide a platform for young artists to communicate complex ideas and invite dialogue through visual storytelling.

“Held in Motion” continues to attract art lovers, students, and collectors, offering opportunities for engagement with the artists and their creative processes. Guided tours and public viewings are available throughout the exhibition period.