Ali Abbas is a legendary figure in the world of contemporary art, renowned for his mastery of watercolor painting. With a Master’s degree in Fine Arts from Jamshoro University, Sindh, Abbas became a teacher of Fine Arts in his Alma Mater in 1992. His remarkable achievements have earned him national and international acclaim, and his contributions to the art world have been recognized by numerous prestigious awards. One of the highest honors bestowed upon him was the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz, a Pakistan Civil Award for excellence in the field of art.
His work has not only been celebrated in Pakistan but across the globe, with awards such as the Gold Medal from Spain, the Watercolor Master Award from the UK, and the World Watercolor Master Award from Thailand.
Abbas’s influence goes far beyond his individual artwork; he has significantly shaped the watercolor community worldwide. He curated the International Watercolor Biennale “Pearls of Peace” in Pakistan, showcasing his ability to bring together international artists for a common cause.
He has also authored 13 books on watercolor painting, further cementing his position as a leading painter in water color.
Throughout his career, Ali Abbas has not only exhibited his work at solo and group exhibitions across the globe, but he has also participated in various juries and workshops, sharing his expertise with fellow artists. His artwork has been compared to some of the greatest masters of art history, with figures like Abdul Rehman Chugtai and Ustad Allah Bux being mentioned in relation to his skill and influence. Many American and European watercolorists have even referred to him as the “rebirth of John Singer Sargent”, underscoring his significant impact on the field of watercolor painting.
In addition to his mastery in watercolor, Ali Abbas has expanded his artistic reach through sculpture, with monumental works installed in public spaces in Hyderabad, which have become an iconic part of the city’s identity. At Clifton Art Gallery, we proudly feature his Ali Abbas paintings, which not only reflect his incredible technical skill but also his profound connection to the cultural and spiritual heritage of Pakistan.
