Born in 1953, Nigar Nazar is a distinguished Pakistani female cartoonist renowned for her significant contributions to the field. Her most iconic creation, Gogi, represents an urban Pakistani woman grappling with the challenges imposed by societal norms rooted in sexism. Gogi serves as a tool to shed light on social and educational advocacy issues, aiming to educate and raise awareness.
As the Chief Executive Officer of Gogi Studios, Nigar Nazar has played a pivotal role in using her artistic talents to address and highlight pertinent social issues. Her cartoons and characters serve as a powerful medium to provoke thought and initiate conversations about the complexities faced by women in Pakistani society.
Educational and Artistic Journey
Nigar Nazar embarked on a unique educational and artistic journey:
In 1968, she made a significant shift from pursuing a medical degree to embracing her passion for the arts. Nigar graduated in fine arts from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, marking the beginning of her formal artistic education.
Seeking further artistic development, Nigar attended courses at the Australian National University in Canberra, adding an international dimension to her education.
The debut of her cartoon character Gogi took place in 1970, appearing for the first time in Karachi’s Institute of Arts and Crafts annual magazine.
In 2002–2003, Nigar Nazar was honored as a Fulbright scholar at the art department of the University of Oregon, followed by another Fulbright Visiting Specialist position at Colorado College in 2009. These experiences abroad enriched her artistic perspective.
Additionally, she attended a UNICEF-sponsored training session on animated film at Hanna-Barbera Studios in Manila, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and exploring various facets of artistic expression.
Gogi Studios: Advocating Social Change Through Art
Nigar Nazar, through Gogi Studios, has dedicated her artistic endeavors to address pressing social issues. In 2009, she successfully completed five “awareness comics” that tackled critical societal challenges such as extremism, corruption, sectarian violence, girl’s education, and women’s rights. This initiative reflects her commitment to utilizing art as a powerful tool for social awareness and change.
Gogi Studios has made significant contributions beyond comics. Nigar Nazar has published three compilations of her cartoons, along with various calendars, brochures, diaries, and posters. Moreover, she has extended her impact by producing three children’s books for international NGOs. These books cover essential topics such as health and hygiene, the environment, disaster management, first aid, and child safety.
Nigar Nazar’s work has transcended newspapers and reached the community, featuring on public buses and in hospitals. The expansion of her work into books and comics underscores the studio’s mission to influence mindsets and foster positive change. Currently residing in Islamabad, Nigar Nazar continues her artistic journey with a steadfast dedication to addressing societal issues through her impactful creations.
International Contributions and Advocacy
Nigar Nazar’s influence extends globally, and her contributions go beyond her artistic endeavors:
- She holds the distinction of being a founding member of the Asian Youth Association for Animators and Cartoonists, with its headquarters in Guiyang, China.
- Nigar Nazar has served as an official speaker and jury member in numerous art and cartoon competitions on both national and international platforms. Her involvement includes events such as the APACA (AYAAC), Aydin Dogan Vakfi (Turkey), Himal Cartoon Conference (Nepal), Cartoonists Congress (Malaysia/Singapore), and the Oxfam Congress for Women’s Issues (Sri Lanka).
- Demonstrating her commitment to education and outreach, Nigar Nazar has conducted various workshops and programs for underprivileged students in Pakistan. Her engagement in these initiatives reflects her dedication to empowering and inspiring the next generation through art and education.
Gogi: Symbol of Modern Womanhood
Nigar Nazar’s iconic cartoon character, Gogi, has achieved widespread popularity as a comic strip featured in newspapers globally. Gogi is portrayed as a modern Pakistani Muslim woman, characterized by short hair, long eyelashes, and a distinctive polka dot dress. The character resonates with audiences due to its relatable depiction of a woman navigating daily life in a male-dominated society.
When asked to describe Gogi, Nazar highlighted that, according to a university student’s well-researched thesis on her work, “Gogi is the symbol of womanhood in Pakistan, with all her adventures and escapades in daily life, facing day-to-day hypocrisies in a male-dominated society.”
The Denver Post aptly described Gogi as “a bit like ‘Blondie’ and a bit like Oprah—except devoutly Muslim,” capturing the character’s unique blend of relatability and cultural context.
In a commendable initiative in 2004, Nigar Nazar collaborated with non-governmental organizations to wrap 12 public-transport buses with Gogi cartoons. This innovative approach served as a medium to convey important social messages to the public.
Recognition and Honors
Nigar Nazar’s outstanding contributions and impact have earned her numerous accolades and honors:
- In 2010, she was featured in the Wateen Telecom Pakistan “Icon of Pakistan” calendar, showcasing her as a notable figure in the country.
- Recognized for her innovative use of cartoons, Nigar Nazar was named first among innovative users of cartoons by the Cartoonists Rights Network.
- The government of Pakistan honored her with the prestigious Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah Award.
- In 1997, she received the Booruker UNESCO prize for her commendable work at an orphanage in Kyrgyzstan.
- Acknowledging her influence and efforts in bringing about positive change, the BBC nominated her as one of a hundred influential women.
- In 2023, in recognition of her dedicated work towards promoting women empowerment, Nigar Nazar received the fourth highest civil award of Pakistan.
- The President of Pakistan awarded her the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz in 2023, further cementing her status as a respected and honored individual in the country.
Innovative Approaches to Trauma Counseling and Outreach
Nigar Nazar has demonstrated a commitment to social impact through innovative approaches:
Trauma Counseling with Puppets (October 2005)
In response to the devastating earthquake of October 2005, Nigar devised puppet shows incorporating elements of trauma counseling. Using Gogi comic strip characters, the shows entertained and conducted trauma counseling in a unique and impactful way, providing support to the earthquake victims.
Outreach Programs and Lectures (January 2008 – December 2009)
Nigar conducted outreach programs in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Lahore, focusing on environmental subjects. These programs included showing animated cartoons, demonstrating the art of drawing cartoons, interacting with children, and distributing free Gogi books and stationary in Gogi school bags to the attendees.
Workshops (2008–2010)
Nigar Nazar conducted numerous cartooning workshops for children, particularly those from disadvantaged communities. Collaborating with international non-governmental organizations such as PLAN, HEC (Higher Education Commission), National Government/CARE, and Shaj-re-Ilm, these workshops aimed to empower children through artistic expression.
Workshops were also organized in collaboration with private organizations, including KFC, for children.
Nigar conducted cartooning workshops for Karachi University, NUST, and Gymkhana Lahore. Additionally, she offered courses in drawing and cartooning at Fatimah Jinnah University. These initiatives reflect her dedication to using art as a means of education, therapy, and empowerment.