Lahore: The Gurmani Centre for Language and Literature at the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) unveiled a new exhibition titled ‘A Life in the Service of Pen’ on July 26, 2024. This event celebrates the illustrious career of Ustad Sher Zaman, the Centre’s distinguished in-house calligrapher, showcasing his significant contributions to the traditional art of calligraphy.

According to Lahore University of Management Sciences, the exhibition features a diverse collection of Sher Zaman’s works, including pieces in nasta‘liq, thuluth, and naskh scripts. These works highlight Quranic verses, poetry, and literary texts across multiple languages such as Urdu, Persian, Punjabi, and Pashto, demonstrating the depth and versatility of his skill.

The opening ceremony was marked by a heartfelt tribute from LUMS Founding Pro Chancellor, Syed Babar Ali, who reflected on his fifty-year association with Sher Zaman. He praised Zaman’s exceptional talent and dedication to the art, emphasizing the unique opportunity for attendees to learn from a master calligrapher. Babar Ali’s remarks highlighted the poetic nature of Zaman’s work, likening his calligraphic strokes to musical compositions.

The event also included a panel discussion featuring Sher Zaman, curator Taimoor Khan Mumtaz, architect Kamil Khan Mumtaz, and calligrapher Syed Sajid Abbar Naqvi. The discussion delved into the intricacies of calligraphy, covering Zaman’s meticulous practice, the influence of his mentors, and the broader historical context of the art form.

Sher Zaman shared insights into his personal journey within the world of calligraphy, stressing the importance of dedication and continuous practice. He recounted the influences of mentors like Sufi Khurshid Alam, Hafiz Yusuf Siddiqui, and Syed Nafees Hussaini, who shaped his approach to the art, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the traditional techniques and their evolution over time.