Ali Powsal: a window to different worlds

It's impressive how a single story can inspire such diversity through different mediums! Visual artists from around the world are taking part in WHISTLE project, in an attempt to present a multi-sensory experience never attempted before in the Greek visual art scene. And that's because we do not think of visual art as an experience that when viewed fades away, but as an excuse, a triggering event, a reason to produce an artistic conversation and a literal dialogue with everyone interested. This is the way we feel visual art should work.

In this short article we present the work of Ali Powsal, a young talented visual artist from Lahore, Pakistan. 

Why did you decide to participate in Whistle Project?

I decided to participate in WHISTLE project because of its differences compared to other projects. It seemed attractive and appealing to me. Plus it seemed challenging.

What intrigued you?

The story is similar to stories one can find in my culture. Strangely though, no one tackled this theme before. In addition, the idea collectiveness, many artists working on the same topic appealed to me the most.

What was your workflow?

I just think and paint. If I notice something strange , interesting or bad around me, it hits me and I begin to paint. The story manifests itself on the canvas through my color lines and my feelings. I focus on the concept of "Art for a cause".

What was your artistic style, any influences?

I mostly do abstract art and smoke art. I try to express feelings, through expressions. I can tell a whole story just by utilizing a character's expressions. Also, if you pay close attention to my paintings you will feel the colors moving. I want the world to see the hidden sorrows of people through my paintings.

Do you believe in superstitions?

No I don't believe in superstitions. But I love to hear stories based on superstitions.

What do you want people to see in your works?

I want them to feel the way the characters, in my paintings, are feeling. An emotion.

Can you make a comment on the idea of collective storytelling?

The idea of collective storytelling fascinates me a lot. Different ideas, different imaginations and perspectives on one topic. It is like a window. A view into the minds of all these artists, from around the world.

Why should people support this project?

People should support this project because of its originality , ideas and creative character. The last one being the most fascinating aspect of all.

Why go to the exhibition?

To experience a story from different angles. To see different worlds and meanings that are hidden from us. To experience the magic of creativity and imagination.

Tell us a few words about the work you submitted to Whistle. How it is related to the story?

The work I submitted revolves around a Jinn (ghost). In Spain and Thailand it is believed that a Jinn comes on a full moon night when melodic music is heard. And in Pakistan it is believed that when a beautiful woman screams at night it is because the Jinn has an obsession on her or fell in love. My work is a combination of these two stories.

All the works created for WHISTLE project by Ali, will be available to the public during the transmedia exhibition.

Ali Powsal is a visual artist from Lahore, Pakistan. His work is an expression of contemporary abstraction, that can also be seen as a cultural symbol in contemporary painting. Using newspapers for canvas his creations reflect on social issues, like women's rights in countries of the east. Another characteristic is the fact that the works adopt a different feeling depending on light conditions, due to the materials used.

Find Ali Powsal on INSTAGRAM