Arif Mahmood
07/12/2024
Arif Mahmood
Born in 1960 in Karachi, Pakistan, Arif Mahmood is a celebrated photographer specializing in photojournalism, portraiture, and fashion. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Otterbein College, Ohio, he returned to Karachi in 1985 and soon dedicated himself to photography. Within a few years, Mahmood’s editorial work was being published in major Pakistani newspapers and magazines, such as Dawn, The News, Herald, and Libas International. His international portfolio includes contributions to Newsweek, Khaleej Times, Gulf News, and Arabian Woman Magazine. With 27 publications, 14 solo exhibitions, and participation in 56 group shows, Mahmood's work is both prolific and critically acclaimed. His photographs are part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. His art bridges professional genres, combining the immediacy of photojournalism with the aesthetics of portraiture and fashion. One of his standout works, Balochistan Earthquake 2008, is a 15-photo monochrome collage that captures the resilience of humanity amidst natural disaster. Eschewing traditional depictions of distress, Mahmood’s imagery portrays optimism and fortitude. He has published two notable photobooks: Silver Linings and P.S. Pestonjee. Mahmood’s extensive timeline showcases milestones such as winning UNICEF’s “Women and Children in Pakistan” competition (1988), leading the Photographic Society of Karachi (1999), and exhibiting globally at platforms like Chobi Mela in Dhaka and Mohatta Palace Museum in Karachi. Inked is honored to be Arif Mahmood’s printing partner, providing museum-grade fine art prints that preserve the timeless quality of his work. Arif’s photography can be cherished at https://www.instagram.com/arifmahmoodphoto/
