The Geometry of Caylus - Two Part Exhibition Series

This two-part series showcases artworks that were made during Pirzada’s art residency at DRAW International - Center for Drawing Research located in a small town of Caylus in Southern France which is hosted by John and Grete Mcnortan. Pirzada received sponsorship by the French Embassy Islamabad for this 4 weeks residency program.

About Emaan Pirzada

Emaan Pirzada (b. Hyderabad, Sindh) graduated from the National College of Arts, Rawalpindi in 2021 with honors in Fine Arts specializing in miniature painting. 

Pirzada’s work has been part of many prestigious exhibitions and festivals held in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, South Korea, France and Ras Al Khaimah UAE. Notably, she had the honor of representing Pakistan in the ‘Painting Old Building’ Project in Cairo, Egypt (2019). She dedicated her post-graduation period to volunteer work at MEF International Schools in Istanbul, Turkey (2021). Shortly after, she worked as an Assistant Curator at Satrang Gallery, Serena Hotels, Islamabad. Later she was shortlisted for TAF Emerging Artist Award - South Asia in 2023.

Based in Islamabad, Pirzada serves as a Coordinator at Foundation Art Divvy, further contributing to the growth and promotion of South Asian Art and Culture. 

About Her work

Pirzada’s art practice revolves around topophilia - an inherent connection to places and environments. Trained as a miniature painter, her work has evolved into mixed media. 

Moving from place to place, transitioning between homes and locations, her works inspire from the emotive and sensory aspects each place holds. Her keen observations include an imaginary mind palace consisting of intricate homely spaces, corners, objects, patterns and both tangible and intangible elements within. Her work focuses on capturing these scenes by creating own compositions and altering the perspectives according to her affliation and interpretation of these environments. 

During the DRAW International residency, her focus shifted from interior domestic spaces to the captivating medieval architecture of Caylus. Over a month she experimented with several mediums and layering techniques. By taking a geometric approach, accentuating basic lines and shapes with the interplay of perspectives and textures, she aimed to craft a visual language derived from these interesting elements. 

Pirzada culminated her residency with an open studio event at DRAW International on November 25th, 2023, where she showcased her work and engaged in discussions with the local audience.

Following the residency, "Geometry of Caylus" debuted at Alliance Française Islamabad on March 2nd, 2024. Pirzada presented a talk and exhibition, delving into the artistic process behind the series and sharing her experiences during the residency.

Now, the exhibition continues its journey with "Geometry of Caylus - Chapter 2" on display at Alliance Française Lahore on May 21st, 2024.