Yousuf Bashir Qureshi’s talents and passions range from fashion design, photography and painting, to food science and farming.
He went to the US to study food sciences, however, his passion for arts eventually took over and led him to switch to fashion design, photography, and art.
His transition into the art world began while he was working in the United States as a horse trainer, yet another unlikely inspiration. Qureshi’s creative streak was recognized immediately when he began to design clothes for himself for his work. The designs became very popular and brought an Indian cavalier charm to the horse shows.
After graduation Yousuf opened a fashion café in Lincoln, Nebraska, called the Silk Café. It was here that Yousuf learned the technicalities and craftsmanship of fashion design. The designer moved to Los Angeles in 1997 where Hollywood noticed the unique South Asian artistry of Bashir’s aesthetics.
Yousuf Bashir returned to Pakistan in 2004, and noticed a Pakistan that was exuding with young talent, yet there seemed to be a missing link between the arts and the community. The patriotic designer, with a feudal background, felt that it was his responsibility to unite and embrace the artistic evolution that was taking place in his home country. Qureshi brought light to the concept of the Commune Artist Colony. His vision for the Colony, with the motto of “Unity-Faith-Passion”, is to provide a healthy environment for artists of fine, performing and visual arts to work without boundaries.
Qureshi is involved in all aspects of the creation process, a true artisan. Indicted with the vision that he has been following for years teaching the young generation.
Yousuf has always been involved in education, whether it is alternative or academic. He is a resident professor at Indus Valley School and also has been invited to speak for numerous courses around the world.
This is an integral part of Bashir’s vision and future for Pakistan’s art community.
Supported by Amal – A Said Foundation Project