Zobia Shah
Zobia Kulsoom is a visual artist born in Pakistan with a passion for colour, form, and creative exploration. Her artistic journey began early in life, driven by a deep fascination with vibrant colours and a desire to continuously learn and experiment within the visual arts.
After completing high school, she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, graduating in 2015. Immediately after graduation, Zobia began exhibiting her artwork in galleries across Pakistan, quickly establishing herself within the national art scene.
Art Style and Themes
Zobia’s work is characterized by its abstract nature, using dynamic shapes and vibrant colour palettes to express the essence of everyday life in Pakistan. Her paintings are known for their energetic, almost frenetic quality, with compositions that seem to leap off the canvas.
Through abstraction, she captures the struggles, resilience, and spirit of ordinary people, especially those whose voices often go unheard. Her themes revolve around identity, culture, and social justice, turning her canvases into platforms for storytelling and change.
Achievements and Exhibitions
Throughout her career, Zobia has participated in nine national group exhibitions, sharing gallery space with some of the country’s most talented artists. Her dedication and talent have been recognized with notable awards:
First Prize in Photography (2017)
Best Painting Award at Best Cement Factory Exhibition (2018)
These achievements marked key milestones in her artistic journey and solidified her reputation as a rising star in Pakistan’s art world.
In 2023, Zobia’s expertise was honoured when she was selected as a judge for a prestigious painting competition at a Federal Government College in Rawalpindi, further reflecting her respected status in the industry.
Social Contributions and Graphic Design Work
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Zobia is a committed social advocate. She completed formal training with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and is a certified trainer working toward the elimination of child labour in Pakistan. Her work with the ILO and her dedication to social justice highlight her empathy and belief in art as a tool for societal transformation.
In addition to her fine art, Zobia is also a skilled graphic designer and illustrator, contributing to impactful visual communication projects and blending her creative skills with meaningful causes.