Ahmed Parvez was a pioneering modernist painter from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, whose artistic journey spanned continents and cultures, leaving a lasting impact on the art world both in his homeland and internationally. Born on July 7, 1926, in what was then British India, Parvez's early life was marked by a profound interest in art, despite initial discouragement from his family. His grandfather was an architect, and his uncle, Michael Jacobs, had a studio in Lahore, indicating that artistic talent ran in the family. However, it wasn't until 1952, after moving away from a job at a clearing and forwarding agency in Karachi to Lahore, that Parvez fully dedicated himself to his passion for art. In Lahore, Parvez became an integral part of a circle of young painters known as the 'Lahore Group'. This group, which included notable names such as Ali Imam and Shakir Ali, was instrumental in the development of contemporary art in Pakistan. Parvez's talent was recognized early on when he was awarded the University Shield for men at the annual All Pakistan Art Exhibition organized by Professor Anna Molka Ahmed in 1952. This accolade marked the beginning of his professional career as an artist, leading to several solo exhibitions in Pakistan and participation in the São Paulo Art Biennial in Brazil in 1955. Seeking to expand his horizons and driven by encouragement from mentors like Molka Ahmed and Shakir Ali, Parvez moved to London in 1955. His time in London was a period of both struggle and growth. Despite facing years of frustration, Parvez's work eventually gained recognition, leading to solo exhibitions at major galleries and critical acclaim for his vibrant, personal signature as a colorist. His work during this period was marked by a lyrical, linear beauty that transcended the decorative, earning him the admiration of the English art world. Victor Musgrave, a British poet, art dealer, and curator, even considered him "without question, the outstanding artist from Pakistan who has made a very strong impact upon the English art world." Parvez's journey took him beyond London to the United States in the late 1960s, where he continued to exhibit his work and further develop his style. However, his heart remained tied to Pakistan, to which he returned after his stint in the US. Back in Pakistan, Parvez's work took on new dimensions, characterized by brighter colors and a continued exploration of modernist themes. His contributions to Pakistani art were recognized in 1978 when he was awarded the President's Medal for Pride of Performance by the government of Pakistan. Throughout his career, Parvez held over 30 solo exhibitions across Europe, the US, and Pakistan, making him one of the most exhibited Pakistani painters abroad. His work was not only a testament to his individual genius but also a bridge between Eastern and Western art traditions, integrating modernism into Pakistani art in a way that was both unique and impactful. Ahmed Parvez's life was a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression. Despite personal struggles, including health issues and financial difficulties, his commitment to his art never wavered. Parvez passed away on October 5, 1979, in Karachi, following a brain hemorrhage, but his legacy lives on through his vibrant and emotive works, which continue to inspire and captivate art lovers around the world. His contributions to the art world were posthumously honored by the Pakistan Post Office in 2006, which issued a sheetlet of stamps to celebrate ten Pakistani painters, including Parvez, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the history of Pakistani art.

Ahmed Parvez Quotes and Sales of Works

Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current market values.

If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the artist, contact us immediately.

If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the works:

Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back, and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work and any kind of available documentation (purchase receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme professionalism.

If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us and let us know your request. We will inform you about the available works. We also offer the possibility to subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, through which you will be informed at the beginning of each month about the latest acquisitions of the art gallery.

You can send us pictures of the work:

• by mail –>  [email protected]
• by WhatsApp –> +39 3205747749