KARACHI: For a long time in the history of mankind, art and science were considered polar opposites. It does not seem to be the case anymore, especially ever since the identification or discovery of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), which has allowed us to understand the genetic nature of our existence it is a molecule that bears genetic instructions in living beings. A three-person show titled DNA that`s underway at the Art Chowk Gallery is a sharp reminder of how artists turn organic matters into mysterious occurrences with their powerfulcreadve streak.

But first, let`s talk about the three participating artists. They are from Gujrat, Punjab. Wajid Ali Dharkiwala is a professor and Sulaman Arshad andUsman Hussain are his former students who practice art in the city of Gujrat.

While Wajid and Sulaman have used acrylic on canvas and archival paper on wasli as their chosen mediums to express themselves, Usman has come up with these big iron-with-metal-coating sculptures that hint at the diverse techniques employed by the three men.

Now with respect to the subject matter, curator of the show Munawer Ali Syed`s statement reads, `Each person is so unique that no other individual can have the same DNA make up or DNA language. One person`s structure of eye, fingerprints, face or body features are so individualised that no one ever in the history of the universe has had the same features and would not have the same features in the future generations to come. Isn`t that amazing? DNA also determines an individual`s behaviour,the way he or she thinks, the way that person reacts, struggles in his or her life.

This is the same feeling I had when choosing the work of the three artists.

Interesting forms created through continuous repetition of a smaller shape and this process is meditative.

Indeed, the artists have unmistakable individualities, both content and technique-wise. Wajid`s gentle, colourful musings, Sulaman`s intricate patterns and Usman`s towering metal figures are distinctly top-notch works of art. And yet, what one can`t help but marvel at is the creative spirit that runs through each one of them with almost equal intensity and vigour speaking volumes for how difficult it is to dissect the creative process in scientific or metaphysical terms.

The exhibition concludes on Nov 16.