Sincerity in Art: Zubeida Agha’s Colourist Paintings

Modernism in Pakistani art is said to have been heralded by Zubeida Agha’s first solo show in Karachi in 1949. Agha (1922 — 1997) was then a young woman — one who had studied political science and philosophy in college but gave in to her recurring dreams about painting. Through painting, it is said, she sought to understand her dreams — her powerful colourist style giving glimpses into her dreamscape.

In 1951, she had her first exhibition outside of Pakistan at the Trafford Gallery in London. In 1952, she travelled to France with her artworks. The reception she got was interesting and renowned Art critic Maurice Collis wrote of her thus,

This Moslim girl’s painting gives us an idea of what is happening at Lahore in artistic circles. While the general public in India has not the smallest interest in painting, there evidently exists in the capital of the Punjab, a set, which is as up-to-date as any art set in Europe or America. Miss Agha must be one of its leading members.

A Parisian gallery described her as ​“a charming young doe-eyed girl who translates her emotions in simple, organic and colourful forms”.

However, her acceptance as a fantastic artist was by no means universal. In fact, many were scandalised by what they called her ​“lack of skill.”

For many years, she was an active curator and gave space to emerging artists, dedicating her life to modern and contemporary art in Pakistan.

Urban Landscape by Zubeida Agha, 1982, Source: Khaas Gallery

Karachi by Night by Zubeida Agha, 1956, Source: Unknown

She is known to have famously said that, ​“Without sincerity there is no true art!” Her life was one well lived by knowing this and working against the fact that galleries and consequently, artists as well, are more interested in sales than standards. Through her life and work, she persevered to uphold talent and independent art.

With inputs from Asma Firdous