Visual Artist | Realist Painter
Born: 1991, Jhang, Pakistan
Lives and works in: Jhang, Pakistan

Education
Aun Raza graduated with a degree in Fine Arts (Painting) from the College of Art and Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore, in 2017. His journey toward formal art education was not linear; after completing his matriculation from Sacred Heart High School, Jhang, Raza had to pause his artistic pursuits due to personal and social pressures. During this time, he explored different career paths and institutions but eventually returned to his true passion, of art.

Artistic Practice
Raza is primarily known for his realist style, developed through deep exploration and mastery of technique. His work reflects a strong dedication to realistic representation, with imagery that is both technically demanding and emotionally evocative. He uses symbolic elements and layered narratives to explore the delicate interplay between reality and imagination.

His paintings offer viewers a space where unsaid emotions and fantasy-based thoughts meet reality. Through a nuanced use of form and medium, Raza creates works that provoke introspection and invite emotional connection.

Artist Statement
"My art practice revolves around fantasy-based intentions of the soul—those that we neither fully embrace nor reject. I believe that imagination resides within us even more than reality. Often, there are personal and powerful scenarios that surround us but go unnoticed. In my paintings, these overlooked moments find voice and form.

I use symbolic elements to illustrate the tension and bond between reality and imagination. These elements are not just compositional; they carry their own meaning and life. A viewer may find fragments of their untold stories scattered throughout my work, experiencing an intimate emotional bond at that moment. My medium guides me, whispering the truths that my compositions will express—sometimes boldly, sometimes softly—always with intensity and balance.

Ultimately, my work asks: Do we find reality in fantasy, or does fantasy quietly accompany us through life?"

Exhibitions
Aun Raza has actively exhibited his works in prominent galleries and art spaces across Pakistan. His notable group exhibitions include:

"17th Anniversary Show", Gallery 6, Islamabad

"The Horsemen", Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore

"Convergence", Collateral Event to Lahore Biennale 03, PU College of Art & Design, Lahore

"Vignettes", Numaishgah Gallery, Lahore

"Paradoxical Realities", Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore

"Strange Reflections", Artescape Gallery, Islamabad (2022)

"A Slice of Life", Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore

"Seher-e-Sadequain", Gallery 6, Islamabad

"Identity", Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore

Arjumand Painting Awards, 2021 & 2023

"Talk to Me", O Art Space Gallery, Lahore

"Resurgence", Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore

"Forecast", O Art Space Gallery, Lahore

"Art for Artist Qutub Rind and Contemporaries", O Art Space Gallery, Lahore

"Peculiar Sanity", Mussawir Art Gallery, Lahore

"Come Forward", Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore

"Subjective Realities", Shakir Ali Museum, Lahore

"Real Spiel", Taseer Art Gallery, Lahore

"Collectors Weekend", My Art World Gallery, Islamabad

"Young Artist Annual Show" (2017–2018), Alhamra Arts Council, Lahore

Pakistan Art Forum Exhibition, 2020