Australia Based Pakistani Artist Tusif Ahmad demonstrate his Papercutting Masterpieces of Qur’anic Verses in Jeddah

Few names light up the landscape of modern Islamic art as much as Tusif Ahmad, a Pakistani artist based in Australia, whose stunning papercutting artworks are much admired. Ahmad recently wowed visitors at the Layla Design Gallery in Jeddah when his distinctive paintings with Qur’anic verses left people mesmerized. His artwork, rooted as it is in tradition but fresh in style, signifies spiritual commitment and artistic excellence.

The Craft of Papercutting Confronts Qur’anic Splendor

Papercutting is a precise art that requires attention to detail, patience, and imagination. For Ahmad, though, it is an art form transcendent—existentially, an act of devotion. Every cut of the blade is made in a spirit of awe for the Qur’an, and every fold of paper unfolds an interplay of geometry, calligraphy, and light.

In the last 12 years, Ahmad has produced over 500 pieces, a body of work that says much about his commitment. His artwork takes words of the Qur’an and turns them into living pieces, with light and shadow playing off one another to reflect the text’s enduring richness. Such a special interaction makes his artworks not only visual fare, but also contemplative introspects.

Crossing Cultures Through Art

Ahmad terms his work an invitation to think and bridge cultures. In a time where Islam remains misunderstood, he views his artwork as a bridge between worlds—a vehicle for sharing the beauty, the peace, and the wisdom of his faith.

Guests of the Jeddah exhibition affirmed this, complimenting the way the fine lines of his papercutting reflected both cultural pride and religious contemplation. For others, it was not just an exhibition, but a moment of engagement—with art, with history, and with religion.

Inspired by Faith and Global Events

Tusif Ahmad path as an artist has been influenced by inner belief and the world at large. From the dilemma of depicting Islamic identity within a global world to the necessity of communicating between cultures, his art is both extremely personal and universally applicable.

Each work is a narrative—not just of sacred words but also of a creator who uses feelings, adversity, and hope to pour into delicate pieces of paper that cross borders.

A New Chapter in Saudi Arabia

In light of the sweep response in Jeddah, Ahmad is currently negotiating to hold his first solo exhibition in Saudi Arabia. This is a landmark moment in his career, considering the Kingdom’s arts scene is quick to adapt to incorporating and celebrating various types of Islamic and contemporary art.

For Ahmad, the chance to share his work in a nation so deeply identified with the center of Islam is both a source of pride and inspiration. His forthcoming exhibition is set to be a milestone moment—not only for him as an artist, but also for the wider movement of Islamic art in the contemporary era.

A Legacy of Reflection

Tusif Ahmad’s papercutting is not just art—it is a legacy of reflection and dialogue. In his work, he reminds the world that Islamic art is not limited to tradition but flourishes when reinterpreted, reimagined, and renewed in new forms.

As his travels unfold, one thing is certain: Ahmad’s art is not merely about elegant designs on paper. It is about bringing faith, culture, and humanity together—a message that echoes far beyond gallery space.

Read more inspiring stories about art, culture, and international talent on Pakistan Updates.