Faruq Siyal

Faruq Siyal, also known as Farooq Siyal, is a distinguished Pakistani visual artist celebrated for his evocative watercolor and oil paintings that often explore themes of inner struggle, peace, and cultural identity.​

Early Life and Education
Born in 1968 in Mohallah Toyanwala, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, Siyal began his artistic journey during his school years, initially painting his school and drawing on walls. He honed his skills under the mentorship of local artists such as Ustad Iqbal Shahid, Masood Mirza, Sagar, B.A. Batish, and notably, Ajab Khan.

Artistic Style and Mediums
Siyal's work is characterized by a focus on self-portraits that delve into personal introspection and the human condition. He employs a variety of mediums, including watercolor, oil paints, and drawing. His art often uses bright colors and natural elements, like flowers, as symbols of peace and non-violence, aiming to promote tolerance and harmony.

Exhibitions and Recognition
Throughout his career, Siyal has participated in numerous group exhibitions across Pakistan, including in cities like Peshawar, Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Dera Ismail Khan. Notably, he was part of the "Journey of Colour" exhibition at Art Scene Gallery in Karachi in 2018.
His accolades include:
First Prize at the Sarhad Cultural Exhibition, 1992, Peshawar
First Prize, S.S. Hyder Award, 1998, Peshawar
Participation in the S.S. Hyder Award, 2002, and Gulgee Awards in 2006 and 2008
Recipient of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government's "Saqafat Kay Zinda Ameen" award.

Notable Works
One of Siyal's notable paintings is "Kalash Girl," a watercolor piece depicting a girl from the Kalash Valley in traditional attire, highlighting the cultural beauty of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Faruq Siyal continues to contribute to Pakistan's art scene, using his work to convey messages of peace and cultural appreciation.