From window dresser at Wrexham’s markets to launching a globally successful fashion label…
Tŷ Pawb is pleased to present ‘NAU, NAU, DOH, CHAAR’ (Urdu for 9924) – a retrospective exhibition by Welsh multidisciplinary artist Liaqat Rasul curated by independent curator Lewis Dalton Gilbert.
Marking a poignant homecoming in more ways than one, the exhibition sees Rasul return to his hometown of Wrexham to reconnect with his roots and early experiences, inviting viewers on a journey of introspection and cultural exploration.
NAU, NAU, DOH, CHAAR is a candid reflection of Rasul’s heritage and life; a self-portrait rendered in the hues of the cultural intersectionality that shape his identity as a Pakistani, Muslim, Indian, Welsh, and East London artist.
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Learning the trade at Wrexham’s markets
Deeply intertwined with the world of market trading, Rasul’s journey begins when his father – encouraged to move to the UK to fill labour shortages – relocates his family to Newcastle, then Liverpool, before settling in Wrexham. By the age of 11, Rasul had assumed the role of ‘window dresser’ in his family business at the Beast Market, Vegetable Market and Butchers Market, providing him not only with the practical skills but an intimate understanding of market dynamics and community commerce from an early age.
NAU, NAU, DOH, CHAAR presents a reminder of the importance of immigration and its positive effects globally. Though the artist acknowledges that the arrival of his parents was not always met with open arms, the city now boasts the multilingualism of 38 spoken languages, with Wrexham standing as a testament to the evolving tapestry of Britain – a narrative Rasul proudly embraces.
A ‘visionary’ fashion designer
A career as a fashion designer followed when Liberty London purchased his graduating collection, propelling him to launch his renowned label, Ghulam Sakina, in 1999. Lending its name to the show, this is where NAU, NAU, DOH, CHAAR begins, meticulously tracing the trajectory of Rasul’s artistic journey, from his roots as a visionary fashion designer with archive garments punctuating the space, alongside the instantly recognisable and impactful work that defines him today.
“Art offers something to believe in”
Liaqat Rasul comments: “In a time and a world where we find ourselves questioning the politics and systems at play, art offers something to believe in, and increasingly becomes a place for the whole family – a place to meet, for discussion, a space to unpack tough topics and experiences. I would like to think you can pick and mix what you want from this show and I want everyone to feel welcome and welcomed within it.”
Independent Curator, Lewis Dalton Gilbert, adds: “Working on this exhibition with Liaqat has not only been an exploration of his ongoing and unwavering talent and creativity but an education of the different places, techniques, and practices he has utilised over his career and across the globe. Bringing this all together to Tŷ Pawb feels like an incredibly poignant moment to celebrate Liaqat whilst also amplifying the great things about Wrexham that contributed to the person we see today.”
Lead Member with responsibility for Tŷ Pawb, Cllr Hugh Jones, adds: “We are delighted to be hosting Liaqat Rasul’s first solo exhibition in his hometown. Tŷ Pawb always strives to showcase artists and creative talents with a Wrexham connection alongside national and international exhibitions so it’s an honour for us to be able to share the story of Rasul’s remarkable career through this inspiring and wide-reaching exhibition.”
Plan your visit
NAU, NAU, DOH, CHAAR is now on view at Tŷ Pawb until 2nd November 2024.
Gallery opening times: Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm
Visit the Tŷ Pawb website for further details
A special print designed by Fraser Muggerbridge with Welcome in three languages is now also on sale to accompany the exhibition with all profits donated to the Runnymede Trust, a British race equality and civil rights think tank.
The exhibition has been made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council Wales, National Lottery, Welsh Government, Wrexham County Borough Council and the Henry Moore Foundation.
