Shiblee Muneer

Shiblee Muneer is a contemporary Pakistani artist celebrated for his mastery in miniature painting and calligraphy, drawing deeply from the Mughal and Pahari traditions. Born in 1982 in Jhang, Punjab, Pakistan, Muneer comes from a lineage of artists who have practiced miniature painting for generations.

According to family lore, Muneer’s ancestors were part of the artistic entourage that accompanied Mughal Emperor Babur from Afghanistan to Persia and later to India, where they served as painters and calligraphers in the royal court.

Muneer was introduced to the world of art at an early age, learning the foundations of miniature painting from his mother and grandmother, both practitioners of the traditional Patiala School. His passion for calligraphy led him to study under renowned masters such as Ustad Ghulam Rasool, Zahid Hassan, Shoukat Minhas, Wajid Yaqoot, and Muhammad Ali Zahid.

He pursued formal education in art at the Naqsh School of Arts and later at Beacon house National University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts. His academic training helped him refine his skills and ground his practice in traditional techniques while exploring contemporary themes.

Muneer's work is recognized for its use of formalist methods akin to those employed by Mughal court atelier artists. He frequently works with traditional materials like gold leaf and wasli paper, integrating intricate craftsmanship with modern visual narratives.

His art has been exhibited internationally, including shows in the United Arab Emirates, Germany, and multiple cities across Pakistan. His pieces are noted for their elaborate detail and the fusion of classical miniature styles with modern subject, representing a dialogue between the past and present.

Shiblee Muneer’s works are available through galleries such as Artciti, Saatchi Art, and various exhibitions both in Pakistan and abroad. His art continues to preserve and reimagine the legacy of South Asian miniature painting for contemporary audiences.