"1000 Desires" by Asif Kureshi

Asif Kureshi
"1000 Desires"

Location: Goa, India
Technique: linocut
Social Media: @Matchworks
Website: http://www.matchworks.in
Print Number: 1739

Concept Note – “1000 Desires” Lino Cut Print by Asif Kureshi “1000 Desires” is a hand-carved linocut print that captures the quiet fire of human longing. At its center, a burning matchstick with a heart-shaped flame stands as a symbol of the many wishes and dreams we hold within. Some flicker softly in the background, while others burn brighter over time, waiting for their moment. At the base of the artwork is a matchbox striker — an invitation to the viewer: What desire do you keep within? If you could strike a match for it, what would you set in motion? The title is inspired by a famous poem of Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib — “Hazaaron khwahishein aisi” — which speaks of having a thousand desires, each powerful enough to define a lifetime. About the Artist: Asif Kureshi is a multidisciplinary designer and artist based in Goa, India, working across visual, product design and urban art. A passionate phillumenist (collector of matchbox labels), he often draws creative inspiration from matchbox art and iconography — reflected here through the use of visual symbols and the tactile striker integrated into the artwork. Medium: Linocut on Cold Pressed Fine Grain Paper (300 GSM) Inks: Water-based block printing ink Size: 7 × 7 cm Edition: Edition of 10 Year: 2025 Artist: Asif Kureshi Location: Goa, India Link to Photos and Videos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/HfnvcrPEAxK3aMH78

Seen in the following exhibitions: