At the heart of Farooqi’s artistic philosophy lies his celebrated “Journey of Line” (Symbiosis Concept). In this groundbreaking series, the line is not merely a formal element of art but a profound symbol of continuity, unity, and transcendence. For him, the line becomes the origin of all creation and a metaphor for the human soul’s journey toward enlightenment. This concept, which he has explored in hundreds of compositions using pastel, watercolor, and mixed media, bridges the gap between form and formlessness, material and spiritual, tradition and innovation.

In the “Journey of Line,” Farooqi delves into the metaphysical and mystical aspects of the line, considering it a symbol of unity, continuity, and infinity. He experiments with different techniques and mediums, combining traditional calligraphy, drawing, and painting to create intricate and dynamic compositions.

One of the most distinguished areas of Farooqi’s work is his mastery of watercolor. With remarkable fluidity and precision, he uses this medium to create landscapes, symbolic pieces, and spiritual expressions that convey both delicacy and depth. His watercolors are marked by a unique transparency of tone and light, capturing not only the outer beauty of nature but also its inner rhythm and mystic energy. These works often transcend mere representation, reflecting moods, emotions, and a meditative quality that connects directly with the viewer’s soul.
Another defining dimension of Farooqi’s oeuvre is his calligraphy. He masterfully integrates Qur’anic verses and Islamic motifs into modern compositions, blending the sacred traditions of Islamic art with abstract, symbolic, and contemporary aesthetics. His calligraphy is not confined to ornamentation; instead, it carries spiritual depth and philosophical reflection, inviting viewers into contemplation of divine beauty and harmony.
Farooqi’s landscapes and oil paintings also stand as powerful expressions of his ability to capture atmosphere and emotion. In his landscape paintings, Shafique Farooqi often focuses on a central element, such as a tree, treating it with the reverence of a portrait. This approach allows him to capture the essence and atmosphere of the entire landscape through the portrayal of a single subject.
His freehand sketches, particularly in pastel and charcoal, showcase his technical brilliance and ability to distill life’s essence into pure line and form.

A pivotal influence on his art came from his 17 years in Turkey (1983–1999), where he immersed himself in Sufi mysticism and the Mevlevi order. His celebrated series of whirling dervishes captures the rhythm of movement, the serenity of meditation, and the ecstatic pursuit of divine union. These works, exhibited globally, have become emblematic of his ability to fuse spirituality with visual dynamism.

In addition, Farooqi has produced remarkable symbolic and figurative works highlighting the resilience of marginalized groups, including people with disabilities. These works earned him recognition and honors in Turkey, Germany, England, and Holland, marking him as not only an artist but also a voice of empathy and social consciousness.
In essence, the work of Prof. Dr. Shafique Farooqi transcends boundaries of geography, culture, and time. It is at once deeply Pakistani and universal, deeply traditional and modern, deeply personal and collective. His art is a dialogue between the seen and unseen, a spiritual cartography that guides viewers toward reflection, harmony, and self-realization.

As an artist he has succeeded in bringing anguish in the soul to his art of painting. Though trained on the conventional lines, He has evolved his own vision of creative consciousness and has completed a work which affirms his originality and commitment for beauty which lies hidden in the visual scenes, and which has been released only by him. His paintings have given something creative to his age, and in this lies his own fulfillment and satisfaction as an artist.