We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zahid Mayo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zahid below.

Zahid, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Any advice for creating a more inclusive workplace?

Inclusive creative spaces are more than just physical locations; they represent a powerful idea that resides in our minds. The concept thrives when like-minded individuals or communities come together, creating a shared vision that feels complete. This communal ideology has been a cornerstone of societies throughout history, where unity, shared spaces, and resources were essential aspects of daily life. However, with modern developments, we seem to have become disconnected from these old traditions and the wealth of knowledge they provided.

I was fortunate to have grown up in a small village in Punjab, where I experienced the strong bonds of a close-knit community. The village had shared spaces that were accessible to everyone, fostering a sense of belonging. After moving to Lahore, I found a similar connection with people from different cities who shared this mindset.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I often credit my own journey as an artist, but with years of experience, I’ve come to realize that my path could have led me anywhere. I was fortunate, however, to discover my creative side early in life. The true credit belongs to my primary school teachers. Despite the limited resources of our small village, we had a strong, caring community back in the 90s—a time before the internet, when traditions ran deep. Many of my teachers were calligraphers, and the village was home to traditional craftsmen like iron smiths and woodworkers. Their influence, along with the traditional village lifestyle, played a pivotal role in inspiring me to become a maker.

I consider myself fortunate to have received traditional art training from the esteemed teachers at Naqsh School of Arts in Lahore, followed by a contemporary art education at the National College of Arts, Lahore. This blend of traditional skills and contemporary understanding has allowed me to explore and express art as one of the most powerful mediums of our time.

Believing strongly in community building, I have consistently engaged in public workshops in both rural and urban areas, collaborating with various organizations and individuals. My art and craft initiative is dedicated to connecting people from diverse backgrounds through creative expression. My commissions reflect my diverse skill set, ranging from calligraphic logo designs to tattoo designs for clients in Pakistan and abroad.

While I’ve created sculptures and received significant commissions, what brings me the greatest pride is my work as a mural artist. I create murals for the everyday people of Pakistan—those who may never visit a gallery or museum, and who might never have the chance to see a single piece of art in their lifetime. This, for me, is the most meaningful expression of art’s power to connect and uplift.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The freedom to imagine and express is, in my view, one of the most profound privileges that art offers. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as the ability to conceive ideas, envision solutions, or even propose the existence of things that may never come to be. Imagination serves as a guiding light in the darkness, illuminating possibilities beyond the ordinary. Through art, we not only explore historical truths but also preserve knowledge and wisdom for future generations. Art is more than a medium—it’s a keeper of our collective understanding and aspirations.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The reality I once lived is a vital part of who I am, and through my work and philosophy, I strive to bridge the gap between the modern world and the past. My goal is to preserve and revitalize certain traditions, ensuring they remain a living part of our collective experience in today’s rapidly evolving society.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zahid.mayo?
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zhd.myo
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zmayo

Image Credits

All images belong to me