Butterflies As Art: Muhammad Tahir’s Visual Ode To Nature’s Delicate Creatures

Zia Ur Rehman

Islamabad: Butterflies, nature’s delicate brushstrokes, have inspired poets across cultures for centuries. Their fleeting beauty and graceful movements captivate even animals like dogs, who often chase them in wonder.

English poets refer to them as “winged jewels”, French poets call them “papillons de lumière” (butterflies of light), German poets describe them as “schwebende Blumen” (floating flowers), and Urdu classical poets liken them to “parwaaz-e-nagham” (the flight of melodies). This universal fascination underscores their enduring allure as symbols of beauty and transformation.

In this poetic context, photographer Muhammad Tahir, based in Faisalabad’s agro-industrial city, captures the timeless wonder of butterflies through his lens, portraying them as symbols of delicate change and irresistible elegance.

His collection of 4,000 photographs featuring around 350 butterfly species highlights their importance in nature’s ecosystem and their aesthetic appeal. Tahir’s work harmonizes with poetic traditions, demonstrating how these enchanting creatures continue to inspire both art and literature.

Muhammad Tahir’s journey into the world of butterflies began with a profound love for nature’s wonders. Pakistan, rich in flora and diverse climates, hosts an impressive 350 butterfly species. His fascination led him to explore every corner of the country—from the arid expanses of Punjab and Sindh to the lush landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

Armed with a camera and profound patience, Tahir captures the perfect moment when a butterfly lands on a flower. His collection is a visual narrative of the delicate balance between beauty and ecological preservation.

“Photography has always been a way for me to express my love for color and life,” says Tahir in an interview. “Butterflies, with their iridescent wings and fleeting existence, are the perfect subjects. Each photograph tells a story of their world and the urgent need to protect it.”

“In one of my most memorable encounters,” Tahir recounts, “I spent an entire day waiting in the misty highlands of Gilgit-Baltistan for the perfect shot of the elusive Apollo butterfly. As the sun set, I captured its delicate wings shimmering against the fading light. That moment symbolized the very essence of why I do this work.”

Tahir’s efforts extend beyond capturing beauty; they aim to raise awareness about the threats facing butterflies. Essential pollinators and indicators of environmental health, butterflies face challenges from habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. Through exhibitions at institutions like the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and GC University Faisalabad, he educates the public on butterfly conservation.
“Breeding and farming butterflies are crucial for their survival,” Tahir emphasizes. “If we do not act now, we risk losing these incredible creatures forever.”

His exhibitions at Baudin Zakaria University Multan and other venues serve as both artistic showcases and calls to action. By highlighting the intricate details and vibrant colors of butterfly wings, Tahir hopes to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.

Tahir’s achievements in butterfly photography have earned him significant recognition, including the UN Peace Award, the PCB Photography Award, and the IPC International Photography Council Award. He was also celebrated as Best Photographer at the Track Darbi Race and received accolades from the Punjab Wildlife Department and the Pakistan Photography Society. Additionally, he dedicates one day a week to teaching photography at GC University, further underscoring his impact on environmental conservation and the art of photography.

Muhammad Tahir’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and the impact of art in conservation. His images offer more than visual delight; they remind us of the delicate interplay between beauty and preservation. In every flutter of a butterfly’s wings, he reflects his commitment to protecting these enchanting creatures and their ecosystems.

“Gul se lipTi hui titli ko gira kar dekho,
Aadhi yo tum ne dara? hto’ ko giraya ho ga”

In these evocative lines from Kaif Bopali’s renowned Urdu poem, Bopali challenges the ruthless winds that have been toppling trees to separate the butterfly clinging to the flower. This powerful imagery serves as a metaphor for the struggle and resilience of fragile creatures, highlighting their strong connection to nature. Kaif Bopali uses this symbolism to underscore the butterfly’s steadfastness in the face of adversity.

In contrast, Tahir perceives humans as more lethal than the most powerful winds. His campaign aims to sensitize people to the importance of caring for these elegant, colorful fairies that embody nature’s beauty and resilience.