Bio 
Sohail Zuberi is a Karachi-based multidisciplinary artist whose practice critiques urban development, dichotomies, and disparities in Karachi. Utilising found materials and digital/ physical archives accumulated over years, his work offers nuanced reflections on the city's transformations.
Zuberi's ongoing research on Karachi's coastal ecologies culminated in two solo shows "Archaeologies of Tomorrow I and II" (2018 and 2022). He was commissioned for the Karachi Biennale (2017, 2019) and has participated in residencies, workshops, and conferences across South Asia, Europe, and North America. With over two decades of academic experience, Zuberi has taught design, fine art, and photography at the University of Karachi, Textile Institute of Pakistan, and Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture, where he also headed the Communication Design department. He has guest lectured at Eindhoven Design Academy (The Netherlands) and served as trustee for Vasl Artists' Collective, board member for Pakistan Chowk Cultural Centre, and core team member for Numaish-Karachi.
Recent engagements include Ajam Media Collective's residency at Lahore Biennale 2020 and curating the International Public Art Festival (IPAF 2020) in Karachi. Currently, Zuberi leads design and production at Tali, a contemporary craft design brand, while teaching as adjunct faculty at Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture.
Artist Statement | Knowledge of the Ancients
The Beach as Archive
For millions of years, the land that is now Pakistan was submerged under the Tethys Sea, a shallow ocean that played a pivotal role in shaping the region's geological features. This ancient history has left an indelible mark on the country's landscape.
This body of work, culminating from fifteen years of research under the title "Archaeologies of Tomorrow," explores the complex relationship between humans and the ocean. Focused on a 2.3- kilometer stretch of Karachi's Sahil beach, this project uncovers facets of the coastal dynamics. Sahil beach, once connected to the popular Seaview beach, was isolated by land reclamation on either side, triggering the phenomenon of wave refraction. This natural process brings an abundance of flotsam and jetsam to the shore.
The salvaged objects from this beach serve as the primary material for the works presented in this show. Through them, I delve into various aspects of the coastal narrative, including the maritime history of Sindh with its ancient sea-faring traditions, the ever-changing ecologies of the coastal region, and the relentless drive of development that reshapes the landscape. Additionally, I explore the myths and legends surrounding objects washed ashore, revealing the intricate connections between the ocean, human experiences, and the cultural heritage of the region.
By examining these intersecting themes, "The Beach as Archive" offers a nuanced reflection on the intricate relationships between humans, the ocean, and the land.
Sohail Zuberi | Aristotle’s Lantern | 2022 | 13 x 30 inches |Sea Urchins, found 2010-2022
Description: Sea urchins have a rich evolutionary history and play vital roles in marine ecosystems. The coastal waters of Pakistan host several species that contribute to the biodiversity and health of the region's marine habitats. The coastal regions of Pakistan, particularly along the Arabian Sea, are home to several species of sea urchins with Diadema setosum or Black Sea Urchin being one of the common one washing up on the Sahil shore.
While displacement and eventual washing up on the beach is often a natural occurrence due to strong currents and high winds, it can also indicate environmental stressors affecting the local marine ecosystem. Untreated sewage being pumped directly on to the beach changes the water
quality with increase in pollutants and low oxygen levels. This can stress the sea urchins, causing them to move away from their usual habitats. Temperature fluctuations due to global warming can also lead to displacement.
The hard, protective shell of the sea urchin – the test – can symbolise resilience and defence. It represents the idea of shielding oneself from external threats while retaining inner beauty.