LAHORE: Mehmil, an organisation of art, craft and antiques organised a three-day exhibition featuring arts, crafts, sculpture and antique items collected by Shoaib Bin Aziz at Studio O on Thursday, with Punjab government spokesperson Malik Ahmad Khan gracing the event as the chief guest.
Malik Ahmad Khan on the occasion reiterated Punjab government’s support of cultural activities in the province and stated that the government would continue supporting and promoting such events. Malik Ahmad Khan further lauded the artist and said that Shoaib Bin Aziz collected all the items with a keen interest which resulted in an excellent collection.
The exhibition attracted people from all walks of life with teachers, students and media professionals appreciating the art pieces, antiques and sculptures.
Art Professor Salima Hashmi appreciated the organisation behind the exhibition and stated, “The newest venture – called Mehmil – reflects the long-rooted desire for human beings to excel in the making of things”.
Renowned architect and artist Nayyar Ali Dada was also present on the occasion and stated that the areas of sculpture and craft had always remained neglected. “Therefore, the work which is being displayed in this regard is totally new as this would overcome the gap on this side of art. I believe that Mehmil’s exhibition is part of the revival of this sector of art”.
Mustansar Hussain Tarrar, writer, novelist and critic, said that art and craft was the skill of hand which was most in this region. He said that there was a need to recreate art and craft as per the modern horizons just like history, which was recreated.
Talking about the exhibition, daughter of Shoaib Bin Aziz said that her father was very keen on collecting sculptures and antiques and wherever he visited he always brought antiques with him. She further said that this exhibition was produced by local artists and this was the very first time that any such collection made by local artists was exhibited. “According to my father’s wishes, only those items are put on display that has been prepared by local artists,” she said.