Mona Naqsh

Mona Naqsh, born in 1968 in Karachi, Pakistan, is a distinguished visual artist renowned for her evocative floral paintings. She received her formal training from her father, Jamil Naqsh, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated modern painters. Growing up in an environment rich with artistic influence—frequented by painters, writers, poets, and collectors Mona was immersed in creativity from an early age.​

Early Life and Education
Mona's artistic journey was profoundly influenced by her father, Jamil Naqsh, a legendary Pakistani modernist painter. From an early age, she was immersed in an environment enriched by artists, writers, poets, and collectors. This nurturing atmosphere, combined with her father's discipline and mentorship, laid the foundation for her artistic development. She recalls absorbing the nuances of art through observation and practice, often replicating masterworks with pencil sketches during her formative years.​

Artistic Career
Over the past three decades, Mona has cultivated a unique artistic identity centered around intricate floral compositions. Her work transcends mere botanical representation, delving into themes of balance, repetition, and the metaphysical patterns found in nature. She often incorporates elements like newsprint and symbolic imagery, such as pigeons—a tribute to her father's signature motif blending traditional and contemporary techniques. Her artistic repertoire spans various mediums, including oil, watercolor, pencil, and pen & ink, showcasing her versatility and mastery.​

Exhibitions and Recognition
Mona's artwork has been showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions both nationally and internationally. Notable solo exhibitions include:​

1. Oasis of Peace, Twelve Gates Gallery, Philadelphia, USA (2009)
2. Silent Sermon, Unicorn Art Gallery, Karachi, Pakistan (2011)
3. When Flowers Talk, Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai (2012)
4. Reincarnation of Soul, Koel Gallery, Karachi, Pakistan (2015)
5. Meditative Trance, Etihad Modern Art Gallery, Abu Dhabi, UAE (2018)

Her work has been described by art critics as classical, and she has been featured in articles and reviews by authors such as S. Amjad Ali, Lubna Agha, Dr. M.A. Siddiqui, Salwat Ali, Marjorie Husain, and Mohsin S. Jaffri.​

Publications
Mona Naqsh has authored several books that reflect her artistic journey and personal reflections:​
1. Mona (2010)
2. When Flowers Talk (2012)
3. Reincarnation of the Soul (2015)
4. Meditative Trance (2018)
5. Ode to My Father: Jamil Naqsh (2022)​

Artistic Philosophy
Mona Naqsh believes that "monotony and mathematics have a strong relationship in nature," emphasizing the recurring patterns and balance found in floral forms. She views flowers as a language of patterns that mirror truths relevant to all forms of life. Her compositions often showcase arrangements of flowers in vases, with the addition of pigeons serving as a direct link to her father's legacy.​

Legacy
Through her dedication to floral art, Mona Naqsh has carved a unique niche in the Pakistani art scene. Her work continues to resonate with collectors, critics, and art enthusiasts worldwide, celebrating the ephemeral beauty of nature and the enduring bonds of familial love.