Modern Miniature Master Pieces By S. M. Mansoor

Opinions of leading art scholars, writers & critics about the art works of internationally acknowledged Pakistani painter S.M.Mansoor (s.m.mansoor@hotmail.com)

“Here, in other words, is a corpus of work, which even as it may charm the eye, equally provides a cultural anchor to ‘modern miniatures’. Why of course, and yet such as are not merely decorative delights. Elephants, flying kites, horse mounted personages, maidens dancing in the vestments of another day, and much else besides, offer a profile of once living attitudes. These attitudes covered a wide range of culture, inner and outer. Via the genus, we certainly become conscious as to how mankind’s life attitudes can be at once subtle, shifting and varying. Mansoor expresses these same with objectivity. In this way he is not merely expressing himself, but attempting to catch culture in process.”

Keshav Malik, Bombay

In Mansoor’s miniatures the tradition serves as a stimulant. Thus, giving the artist a power to realize the modern vision and create in the language of his ancestors with a refreshing and spontaneous fragrance of his own times. Elements of abstraction with modern visual vocabulary in these miniatures make them distinct from the conventional miniature art in sub-continent.

Prem Singh New Dehli

Mansoor is an artist of his time but a `one off,’ unique man of great diversity. His work is an exhilarating visual experience; there is great variety in the artist’s choice of subject. In the work of Mansoor it is a joyful sharing of optimism with No elitist overtones.

Marjorie Husain, Karachi

Mansoor’s art rejects deterministic attitude. He had eliminated all the conventions of traditional miniature painting. There is a growing sense of experimental and innovation. He uses the modern sometimes abstract many times semi abstract language and molded it to express his ideas.

Dr.Shahida Manzoor, Lahore

With innovative experimentation Mansoor certainly seems to be going somewhere. Where he eventually lands up is dependant upon his sustainability and his ability to choose the single path that will satisfy his urge for adventure and assimilate his undoubted ability to use colours textures and icons from his rich traditional heritage.

Dr. .Musarrat Hasan, Lahore

Mansoor shows a deep sense and lust for experimentation, observation and scrutiny. And with this deep sense of perception he juxtaposes traditional elements with modern element. He mixes traditional techniques with modern vocabulary. No doubt Mansoor is a master, an expert and a king of modern miniature painting art in Pakistan.

Dr. Shaukat Mahmood

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