1. Bibliographic Note
Murad Khan was born and raised in Swat, a region that continues to shape his artistic journey. He completed his early education in Swat and found his initial inspiration in the vibrant visuals of cinema painters. This early fascination led him to explore various creative fields, including filmmaking. Over the years, Murad has worked as an art director and set designer on numerous projects and also founded his own design firm. His practice spans visual art and design, rooted in cultural memory and cinematic expression. For the past three decades, he has actively participated in both group and solo exhibitions, showcasing his evolving body of work across various platforms.
2. Artist Statement
Murad Khan is a visual artist who has been working professionally for over three decades. His artistic practice is deeply rooted in the Swat Valley, the region he calls home. Swat holds immense historical significance, once serving as a central site for the Gandhara and Hindu Shahi civilizations.
Growing up in this culturally rich landscape has profoundly influenced Murad’s creative journey. What began as a fascination with the valley’s historical narratives has gradually evolved into a practice that explores the region’s socio-political issues and folk tales. His work weaves together the ancient and the contemporary, using visual language to reflect the enduring spirit and layered history of Swat.
3. Artwork Review
Murad Khan, a renowned artist, depicts the Gandharan civilization and has also produced a number of masterpieces related to the Pakhtun culture. Gandhara was an ancient kingdom in the Swat and Kabul river valleys, in the modern-day states of northern Pakistan and northeastern Afghanistan.
Murad Khan works closely with archaeologists, and his collaboration with the Italian Archaeological Mission at various sites allows him to study ancient rock art and paintings from pre-Buddhist times. This inspiration is now being realized on a modern canvas. The artist states that ‘cave art in Swat has existed since before documented history. The valley had its own unique style which I am striving to revive. Motifs and patterns were very symbolic in ancient times.’
This is one example of contemporary artists around the world whose work is inspired by ancient motifs found in prehistoric rock art, cave paintings and petroglyphs.
4. Credentials
- Solo Show Islamia College D. I. Khan (Sad Sala Functions) 1989
- Solo Show At Hunerkada 2006
- One day show at Convention Center Islamabad (SARC) Peace Convention 2006
- Calligraphy group show at Shakir Ali Museum 2008
- Calligraphy group show at Native Art Gallery 2008
- Calligraphy group show at National Art Gallery 2008
- Murals at Swat Museum 2012
- Participated in 9th National Exhibition at PNCA 2017
- Cultoor, Sulah Exhibition 2018
- Solo Show At Full Circle Gallery Karachi 2018
Curation
- 100 Years of Cinematic Artist Posters Exhibitions (Cinema Posters)
- IAF, Islamabad Art Festival Representing KP as an curator
- Organized and curated exhibition of 100 years anniversary celebration of Pashtoon Philosopher and poet Ghani Khan 2014