Zafar Ali, born in Baluchistan and trained in miniature painting at the National College of Arts, Lahore (BFA), explores Sufi thought and devotional literature through densely composed miniature tableaux. His work interprets mystical texts — including The Conference of the Birds — as visual metaphors for spiritual search, unity and diversity, and he composes assemblies of birds, figures and ornament that translate philosophical inquiry into allegory.

Zafar was the First Prize recipient of the Purazm Award (2020) and was selected for the Art Saraye Residency (2023); he subsequently received the Art Saraye Artist Grant for a 2024 solo presentation. His paintings have been included in group and solo exhibitions in Pakistan and in international collaborative presentations.
Lives and works in Pakistan.