Pursuit of Happiness 1 Print - Limited Edition of 10

Gulzar Ali (b.1996) is a printmaker based in Lahore, Pakistan. He graduated with a Master's in Fine Arts from the University of Punjab in 2022, and received his Bachelor in Fine Art from the University of Balochistan in 2018. Originally from Dera Murad Jamali, Ali is inspired by his hometown and his work reflects his interest in the people and landscapes there. Using woodcut as his primary technique, Ali creates intricate works with each color requiring a separate carved plate. Ali’s work received the Best Artwork Award at the Young Artists Exhibition at Alhamra Art Gallery in 2022. He has also participated in online exhibitions, including one by Megalo Print Studio in Australia. Art Statement  As humans, we work and struggle and wait for a time of comfort the time of comfort that follows. A good grade after studying, good health after working out, a pay-cheque at the end of the month, and peace after trials. This is the way life works. We struggle and then wait for our time to rest. We suffer and then we experience relief. Without hope of achievement, we find our struggles useless. My work captures the moment of happiness after achieving the simple goals of life.    I use woodcut as my medium, it is a labor-intensive process, where each color is carved from a separate block of wood. The printing process is also involved, as I mix colors and roll each shade out to print multiples on a press. The feeling of accomplishment is something I find satisfying about the process.