​Riaz Rafi is a distinguished Pakistani artist renowned for his evocative abstract and calligraphic paintings. Born in Sukkur, Sindh, Rafi's early fascination with art was nurtured through drawing on traditional wooden slates (takhti) and reading the Urdu column Tasveer Aur Musawir by Shafi Aqeel, which introduced him to prominent artists like Gulgee and Ali Imam.

Early Life and Education
Despite familial expectations to pursue conventional careers in medicine or engineering, Rafi chose a different path. He earned a Master's degree in Journalism but remained deeply committed to art. His artistic journey was largely self-directed, though he honed his skills under the mentorship of esteemed artists such as Ali Imam, Mansoor Aye, Gulgee, and Ahmed Pervaiz . Rafi's experiences, including a period of voicelessness following a thoracic surgery, profoundly influenced his artistic expression, leading him to communicate through his canvases.

Artistic Style and Themes
Rafi's work seamlessly blends abstract expressionism with calligraphy, often exploring themes of identity, spirituality, and societal issues. His paintings are characterized by silhouettes, shadows, and recurring motifs like eyes, creating intricate layers that invite contemplation. While deeply influenced by Islamic calligraphy, his approach remains distinctly personal, merging traditional techniques with innovative interpretations.

Exhibitions and Collaborations
Since his first solo exhibition in Karachi in 1993, Rafi has participated in over 80 group exhibitions and held nine solo shows both nationally and internationally . Notably, in 2015, he collaborated with artist Tassaduq Sohail on "Inimitable Consilience," Pakistan's first 'joint-solo' exhibition, where they co-created 24 paintings over 16 months . Rafi has also worked with American artist Bruce Colburn on projects aimed at promoting Urdu language and Pakistani culture globally through art.

As of February 2025, Rafi is based in Houston, Texas, operating from Studio 114 at Silver Street Studios. He continues to create and exhibit his work, contributing to the international art scene . His vision includes establishing a South Asian Museum in the United States to showcase the rich cultural heritage and the transformative power of art.