Shahzia Sikander experiments with the formal constructs of Indo-Persian miniature painting using video, animation, mural and collaboration with other artists. She has pioneered an interpretive and critically charged approach to the anachronistic genre of miniature painting. Underpinning the work is also Sikander’s interest in paradox, societies in flux, and formal and visual disruption as a means to cultivate new associations.

Sikander has received the Medal of Art by the US Secretary of State, Hilary Rodham Clinton (2012), John D. and Catherine T MacArthur Foundation Achievement ”˜Genius’ award, (2006) and the National Pride of Honor by the Pakistani Government (2005). In 2006, the World Economic Forum, Davos, Switzerland appointed Sikander as a Young Global Leader.

With support from the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) and in conjunction with the exhibition, “Doris Duke’s Shangri La: Architecture, Landscape, and Islamic Art”, on view at UMMA January 25 - May 4, 2014.