Art Exhibition Showcases Legacy of Pakistani Masters and Contemporary Artists

On October 5, 2024, the vibrant city of Karachi witnessed a remarkable event as part of the ongoing "World Culture Festival Karachi," organized by the Arts Council of Pakistan. An art exhibition titled "The Legacy, Vision of the Old Masters & Contemporary Painters of Pakistan" was inaugurated at the Ahmed Parvez Art Gallery. This exhibition serves as a bridge between the rich heritage of Pakistani art and the innovative expressions of contemporary artists.

The inauguration was graced by the presence of several dignitaries, including the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zaabi, the Provincial Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Archives, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, and the President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, Muhammad Ahmed Shah. The UAE’s Consul General in Karachi, Bakheet Atiq Al Rumaithi, also attended the event, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange between nations.

During the inauguration, UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Al Zaabi praised the efforts of Muhammad Ahmed Shah and Zulfiqar Shah in organizing such an incredible festival. He emphasized that "art is a global language" and expressed his admiration for Pakistani artists who participated in the Dubai Art Festival. The ambassador noted the immense talent of the young generation in Pakistan and advocated for more exchanges between artists from Pakistan and the UAE. He expressed gratitude to the media for promoting the festival on a global scale and hinted at future collaborative projects between Pakistani and Emirati artists.

Provincial Minister Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah welcomed the UAE Ambassador warmly, stating that his presence was an honor for the people of Karachi. He mentioned plans to organize visits to historical sites in the city, aiming to project Pakistan's soft image internationally through the World Cultural Festival. Shah also highlighted the brotherly relations between the UAE and Pakistan, advocating for eased visa policies to facilitate travel between the two nations. He shared exciting news about plans to hold a culture festival in Dubai, further strengthening the cultural ties.

President Muhammad Ahmed Shah expressed his pride in having the UAE Ambassador participate in the festival. He revealed that the idea for this festival stemmed from the 2017 World Culture Summit and mentioned that they have sought intellectual support from the UAE government. The exhibition showcased an impressive collection of 29 masterpieces from Pakistan’s art masters and 32 works from emerging young artists. Notable figures included Anwar Maqsood, Farrukh Shehab, Shehzad Baloch, and many others, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Pakistani art.

As a gesture of goodwill, President Muhammad Ahmed Shah presented a painting by the renowned artist Anwar Maqsood to the UAE Ambassador, symbolizing the friendship and cultural exchange between the two nations. The exhibition is set to continue until October 15, 2024, providing art enthusiasts and the general public an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and diversity of Pakistani art.

This exhibition not only celebrates the legacy of old masters but also shines a light on the contemporary artists who are shaping the future of art in Pakistan. It serves as a reminder of the power of art to connect people across borders, fostering understanding and appreciation among different cultures. As we look forward to more such initiatives, it is clear that the arts will continue to play a vital role in bridging gaps and building lasting relationships.