Iqbal Hussain: The Visionary Artist
Iqbal Hussain, an Aquarian by birth, is known for his progressive spirit and visionary mind. A humble yet near-genius personality, Hussain has consistently created thought-provoking and original artworks throughout his career. His creative process is marked by inventiveness and a deep sense of empathy for his subjects.

Figurative Works: Honesty in Representation
Hussain is best known for his figurative paintings, particularly those depicting women from a specific social background. These women are portrayed without melodrama or exaggeration. His canvas often reveals scenes from their daily lives sitting together, lying down, chatting, performing menial tasks, waiting, or lost in thought. These activities suggest a meditative quality or a moment of internal reflection.

Many of his paintings include multiple female figures, proposing familial or communal bonds. While some works reflect the despair of inescapable situations, others convey the strength and confidence of these women. What stands out most is the honesty in Hussain’s portrayal he refrains from artificially enhancing their beauty, choosing instead to depict them as they are in reality, free from glamour or stylization.

Cityscapes of the Walled City
Beyond figures, Hussain is deeply inspired by the walled city of Lahore. His cityscapes echo the visual language of his figurative work, capturing the chaotic yet intimate architecture of the area. As art historian Nadeem Alam observed, “The cityscapes of Iqbal Hussain seem the continuity of his figurative painting,” emphasizing the silent complexity and textured layers of Lahore’s urban sprawl.

These works offer viewers an immersive experience wandering through narrow alleyways, standing on rooftops, or catching fleeting glimpses of landmarks like the Badshahi Mosque and River Ravi.

A Journey Shaped by Fate and Mentorship
Interestingly, Hussain never aspired to become an artist. In 1970, a friend persuaded him to apply to the National College of Arts (NCA), Lahore. At the time, Hussain was simply making pencil drawings of film stars to amuse his friends. Unbeknownst to him, the friend had an ulterior motive by helping Hussain enrol, he gained access to meet his girlfriend on campus. Hussain now credits that unexpected twist of fate as the turning point that launched his artistic journey.

At NCA, Hussain’s interest in painting flourished under the mentorship of Khalid Iqbal, who played a crucial role in both his artistic and personal life. Hussain considers him a father figure, acknowledging Iqbal’s unwavering support emotional, artistic, and financial through his formative years.

Struggles, Resilience, and Recognition
Despite being a graduate and former faculty member of NCA, Iqbal Hussain has not received the institutional recognition he rightly deserves. Many art critics note that his work, though iconic, has not been mainstreamed or fully endorsed by the state or cultural institutions. Yet, Hussain continues to create art with deep faith and hope, like all great artists.

Health Battles and Artistic Rebirth
Last year, Hussain faced a major health challenge when he was diagnosed with blood clots in the brain and was hospitalized twice. His strong willpower and spiritual faith aided his recovery. Remarkably, after returning from the hospital, he resumed painting with renewed vigour. These newer works, though less detailed, feature bold, simple, and powerful strokes that reflect the emotional turbulence and strength of his experiences.