Wajood III (essence of being), 2026

About Saddam Khan Murad

Saddam Khan Murad is a visual artist from Swat, Pakistan, and a graduate in Fine Arts from the National College of Arts (NCA) in Lahore. Saddam’s work is a profound reflection of his connection to his hometown and the socio￾political issues that engulf it. He describes his practice as comprising large-scale, monochromatic, and textural paintings, often featuring abstract figures positioned close to one another to explore observations of race, gender, privacy, and intimacy. His art also carries references to the history of the Gandhara civilization, of which Swat— known as the Uddiyana Kingdom in 800 BCE—was a major site. He draws inspiration from the history left behind on walls scattered across Swat, which have been painted over repeatedly to create thick, textured layers bearing the imprints of political slogans and advertisements. Furthermore, his latest body of work is inspired by the poetry of his favorite poet, Ghani Khan, the renowned Pashtun philosopher. Currently based in Lahore, Saddam has displayed his work in various group exhibitions and solo shows, including his notable solo exhibition titled Dyed in the Wool at Sanat Gallery, Karachi.