Monday, February 8, 2010

Nazia Khan and Female Armor




Pakistani contemporary artist Nazia Khan discusses female anatomy with her welded sculptures of battle gear and armor. She poses the idea of security and vulnerability with the female curvature. In addition, Khan discusses the political, emotional and spiritual influences on the Pakistani female in this environment.

"Hanging Fire" in NYC: Video Links

Pakistani Art @ Christie's in London



This video may be from 2008 because it features some sculptures, drawings, and paintings from contemporary female Pakistani artists. Artist Nazia Khan creates metal sculptures of armor and Adeela Suleman presents helmets made from copper and bronze servingware. In addition, professor and editor Salima Hashmi briefly discusses the work.

Pakistani Truck Painting


Here is a YouTube video of Pakistani truck painting, which is a tradition that has lasted generations. Newly-produced trucks are brought to artisans who take approximately 45 days to weld, paint, and adorn the entire surface area of the vehicle. Typically, Arabic calligraphy, birds, and fruit are added to the design.

Making Charpoys (Pakistani Woven Beds)


Attached to this post is an excellent YouTube video of Pakistani artisans creating charpoys (also "charpai"), which are four-legged wooden beds that are woven with tough nylon-thread and yarn. Often, these beds can be used as seats or tables throughout the day. Therefore, it is a cost-effective option for homeowners and it also retains cultural value. These charpoys also come in a variety of bright, neon colors or in more natural tones. In the video, artisans and doctors are interviewed about the health and historical benefits to owning and using a charpoy. With a dry climate and above 100F tempatures, these beds provide versatility as firm and breathable beds that are easily transportable throughout the home. I'm very excited to find this video because there are barely any images or websites available on the topic. Kudos for the online submission.