Syed Saifuddin

syed.saif@paf-iast.edu.pk

Syed Saifuddin

Lecturer

Biography

I am a multimedia artist from Pakistan with over 10 years of experience in animation, illustration, and digital media. My work combines traditional techniques with contemporary tools to explore themes of perception, memory, and the human condition. With a Master’s in Animation Design, my thesis focused on how blind individuals construct mental imagery through non-visual senses—research that continues to inform my socially engaged, sensory-based animation practice. I have worked as an environment and concept artist for international studios and directed several animated films. My latest short, SIGHTS, based on the internal imagery of blind individuals, was awarded at the Beneath the River Danube International Festival. As an educator, I’ve led animation workshops across Pakistan, promoting inclusive and participatory storytelling. I believe animation can visualize the unseen and democratize narrative expression. My current work explores alternative ways of mapping and experiencing urban spaces through the tactile and auditory perceptions of those without sight.

Professional Appointments

  • Lecturer, SDAAT, PAF-IAST, Aug 2025 - Present
  • Concept Artist, We are Play (Games), Feb2020- Feb2022
  • Concept Artist, Mega Particle (VR Games), April 2018 – Dec 2019
  • Director of Environments, 3rd Wold Studios (Animation), March 2016 – Feb 2018

Education

  • Master of Multimedia Art, National College of Arts Lahore, March 2024
  • Bachelor’s of Art and Design (Honours), Department of Art and Design (UOP), December 2014

Research Interests:

  • Visual Impaired Individuals

Projects

  • Written, Visualized, Directed an animated short movie named “SIGHTS” , nominated by INTERNAITIONAL FESTIVAL organization “Beneath The River Danube”. (2024)
  • Director of Environments on Animated Feature Film “ALLAHYAR and the LEGEND of Markhoor.
    (Designed the whole Environments Design) (2016-18)
  • One-week art camp “Face Off” with “Jamal Shah” (2014)

Awards & Prizes

  • Audience Award for Movie “SIGHTS”, The River Danube International Festival, 2024.
  • Huner Mela, Government of KPK, 2014
  • 1st Position Islamic Youth Gala, Islamia College and University Peshawar, 2013
  • 2nd Position “Funkatosh”, KP Government, 2012
  • 1st position “Kaawish Art Exhibition and Competition”, University of Engineering and Technology Peshawar, 2011