Ruheena Malik
Ruheena Malik | |
|---|---|
| Born | Ruheena Malik |
| Other names | Rubeena Malik |
| Education | Convent of Jesus and Mary, Karachi |
| Occupations | Calligrapher, Painter |
| Years active | 1996–present |
| Children | 3 |
| Honours | Pride of Performance (2009) |
Ruheena Malik is a Pakistani calligrapher and artist known for her distinctive style that merges traditional Islamic calligraphy with modern art movements like Cubism.[1] Her work often features Quranic verses and is created on a variety of media, including carved wood, canvas, and antiques.[2][3] She was awarded the Pride of Performance by the Government of Pakistan for her contributions to the arts.[1]
Early life and education
Ruheena Malik was born in Pakistan to a Pakistani father and a half-Danish mother.[3] She received her early education in Karachi at the Convent of Jesus and Mary before moving to London, where she earned a bachelor's degree in textiles.[3]
Career
After her marriage, Malik took a long break from art.[3] She re-engaged with her artistic passion by exploring calligraphy while living in Copenhagen with her mother, after her children had started boarding school.[3] She officially returned to the Pakistani art scene in 1996.[1] Malik formerly co-owned the restaurant Copper-Kettle in Karachi, where she held her first exhibition of calligraphic work, featuring 40 pieces on paper and ink.[3][4][5] She later established her own art gallery in Pakistan.[3][6]
Her calligraphy has been presented to prominent figures, including Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al Saud and UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.[3][1]
Ruheena's solo exhibitions include "Kalaam" at Mohatta Palace in 1999 and a 2005 show at the Alliance Francaise.[3] In March 2013, she held an exhibition at the Quaid-e-Azam House.[7][1] She has also participated in group exhibitions with other Pakistani artists and shown her work internationally, including in Paris.[3]
In 2021, She was invited by Niazi family to display her artwork at their clothing store Niazis.[8]
In recognition of her artistic contributions, Malik was awarded the Pride of Performance by the Pakistani government in 2009.[1]
Personal life
She is married and has three children.[3]
Awards and recognition
| Year | Award | Category | Result | Title | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Pride of Performance | Award by the President of Pakistan | Won | Arts | [1] |
Style
Malik's art is deeply spiritual and inspired by the Quran.[1] Her unique style is a fusion of traditional Arabic script with Cubist elements, creating a three-dimensional effect in her carvings.[1] She works with several traditional scripts, including Kufic, Thulth, Naskhi, and Nastaliq.[1] Her materials are diverse, ranging from carved wood and canvas to repurposed antiques like old doors, wooden panels, and tiles from historic havelis (mansions) across Sindh.[3] Her works are presented in vertical, horizontal, and circular formats.[1]
References
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k "Ruheena Malik immortalises her faith with Islamic art". The Express Tribune. March 27, 2023.
- ^ "COLLECTOR`S CHOICE: The Art Of The Written Word". Dawn News. September 19, 2008.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l "Art from within..." The Express Tribune. March 25, 2012.
- ^ "The Red Emperor calls out to Chinese food lovers". The Express Tribune. May 19, 2013.
- ^ "A pinch of saffron". The Express Tribune. August 20, 2010.
- ^ "Treasure Trove". Dawn. January 6, 2013.
- ^ "Ebad appreciates Ruheena Malik's calligraphic work". Business Recorder. April 3, 2013.
- ^ "Not just an ordinary store". The News International. November 28, 2021.