Ishtiaq Ali

IndiaartistMaleb. 19389.0Global Dominance: 0.00%

Ishtiaq Ali is an 85-year-old artist from Lucknow, renowned for his unique artistry of carving Hindu deities, particularly Lord Ganesha, directly onto living trees without causing harm. His passion for idol-making began in earnest about 10-15 years ago after a lifetime of struggles, including working as a daily wage laborer. Ali's work has gained national attention through social media, showcasing his dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship while also transforming neglected spaces into places of reverence and beauty. His deep understanding of idol-making rituals, particularly the significance of the eyes in bringing his creations to life, reflects his profound connection to his art and spirituality.