Art lovers have a special treat at the FPH Gallery, where artist Mohd Imtiyaz is currently showcasing his latest collection of paintings. Known for his unique style, Imtiyaz creates stunning visual narratives using acrylic colors and deep philosophical themes. His work explores Sufism, rural life in Rajasthan, and the five elements of nature, offering viewers a rich and immersive experience.
Acrylic abstractions and spiritual reflections
Imtiyaz revealed how he came to Mumbai dreaming of becoming a well-known artist. “I came to Mumbai in 2007. I started learning about art, paintings, strokes and started to create my own artwork. I started making paitings at Kala Ghoda’s open art gallery and displaying them for people to admire my work and buy my paintings,” he shared.
Imtiyaz’s paintings are a fusion of bold colors, layered textures, and fluid forms that go beyond traditional artistic expression. His abstract approach does not depict direct images but instead evokes emotions and inner perspectives. Many of his paintings draw inspiration from Sufi philosophy, conveying themes of spiritual seeking, divine love, and self-exploration through the interplay of light, shadow, and motion. He is also a master of Cubism, which is a form of artwork. His play of colors make you stare at the visuals for minutes and
“I met other artists who were in this field since their childhood and that gave me inspiration to look at the bigger picture. I tried doing solo shows and even did them a few but somehow I did not succeed. I kept failing and started losing confidence. But the one thing I did not do is give up! I continued with my art and I am making a comeback this year. My solo art exhibition at FPH Gallery is my first show of the year and there are many to come. I can say that my comeback is a banger since I have already sold 4 paintings at this gallery and I consider FPH gallery lucky for me,” Imtiyaz added.
Capturing rural Rajasthan in abstract forms
A significant portion of the exhibition is dedicated to rural life in Rajasthan, an important influence in Imtiyaz’s artistic journey. His paintings reflect the simplicity, vibrancy, and traditions of village life, capturing the golden sands, bustling streets, and intricate architecture in a way that is both dreamlike and deeply rooted in reality. Without using direct figurative elements, he conveys the soul of Rajasthan through color contrasts, geometric patterns, and textured strokes.
His collection also showcases Sufism and Sufi artists performing in devotion. The peculiarities of Sufism have been shown in the work to reveal the love for all living and non living things in the universe via music, dance and their harmony as well as rhythm. Imtiyaz said he was inspired to paint them after he recalled how his father was a big fan of Sufi music. He often listened to Sufi music and Imtiaz often wondered how painting devotion on a canvas would come to life.
The Five Elements as a Creative Force
One of the most fascinating aspects of the exhibition is how Imtiyaz incorporates the five elements of nature-earth, water, fire, air, and space-into his artwork. Each painting seems to be infused with the essence of these elements:
Earth is represented through deep browns and textured surfaces, symbolising strength and grounding.
Water flows through fluid brushstrokes and serene blues, creating a sense of movement and emotion.
Fire bursts forth in reds, oranges, and bold strokes, symbolising passion and energy.
Air is suggested through light, airy compositions, where space and emptiness play a crucial role.
Space (Ether) ties everything together, giving a sense of vastness and infinity within the abstract forms.
Imtiyaz mentioned how life has humbled him at times and he that he never forgets that! The art often makes him discover himself emotionally and feel the depth of each blend he portrays on the canvas.
A visual and emotional experience
Imtiyaz’s paintings are not just to be seen but felt. Each stroke tells a story, each color combination holds meaning, and each texture invites contemplation. His work pushes boundaries, making viewers engage with art on a spiritual and emotional level.
The exhibition is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates abstract expressions of culture, philosophy, and nature. This exhibition is open to viewers from March 15 to March 31st at FPH Gallery, Nariman Point
