Artistic Journey
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Shafique Farooqi discovered his artistic calling through an early exposure to Sufi music and poetry. His fascination with the whirling dervishes began during his youth when he witnessed a qawwali performance at a local shrine. This profound experience shaped his artistic vision and led him to pursue formal training at the Karachi School of Arts, where he developed his technical skills while maintaining his focus on spiritual themes.
Farooqi's artistic journey has been deeply influenced by the mystical traditions of Sufism, particularly the concept of spiritual transcendence through movement and devotion. His paintings capture the ephemeral moments of the whirling dance, translating the dervish's physical and spiritual journey into visual poetry. Through years of study and practice, he has developed a unique style that combines traditional Islamic artistic sensibilities with contemporary painting techniques.
Today, Farooqi's work serves as a bridge between the ancient wisdom of Sufi traditions and modern artistic expression. His paintings have been exhibited in galleries across Pakistan, the Middle East, and internationally, where they continue to inspire viewers with their spiritual depth and aesthetic beauty. As both an artist and a spiritual seeker, Farooqi uses his art to share the transformative power of Sufi mysticism with a global audience.
Education
BFA, Karachi School of Arts, Pakistan
Certificate in Islamic Art Studies, Al-Azhar University, Cairo
Workshop in Sufi Art Traditions, Institute of Traditional Arts, Casablanca
Awards
Spiritual Art Excellence Award, International Islamic Arts Festival, 2018
Best Contemporary Sufi Artist, Pakistan Arts Council, 2015
Cultural Heritage Recognition, Sindh Arts Foundation, 2012
Style & Medium
Shafique Farooqi works primarily in oil and acrylic on canvas, often incorporating mixed media elements. His distinctive style captures the flowing motion of Sufi whirling through dynamic brushstrokes and atmospheric color gradations. He is known for his masterful use of light and shadow to create depth and movement, often employing a palette that ranges from earthen tones to ethereal blues and whites. His paintings convey both the physical grace and spiritual transcendence of the dervish tradition, creating works that are meditative and emotionally resonant.
