In connection with the month of Moharram-ul-Haram, the Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) organised a group calligraphic exhibition on Tuesday, which was inaugurated by Senator Najma Hameed. More than 50 pieces of 10 renowned calligraphers of international fame were put on display in the exhibition. The work of Aftab Ahmed Khan (Pride of Performance), Elahi Bux Matteh, Ibne Kaleem, Imran Tahir, Azeem Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Tabani, Tayyab Munawar, Anwar Saddidi, Mehmood Ali, Irsa Ambreen and Amina Waqas is showcased in the event. The exhibition, which will remain open for a week, attracted a large number of people from the twin cities on the first day. Senator Najma, while expressing her views after the inaugural ceremony, said, “Considering calligraphy as our cultural obligation, we should respect and patronise the calligraphists because it is a unique cultural tradition of Islam,” adding that it reminded of the golden era of Muslim rule. “It is a great contribution of calligraphers that this art is still intact and will be transferred to next generation as well.”
She further said that the works were a landmark in the genre of calligraphy and art in Pakistan. “They are an aesthetic blend of traditional and modern thought.” She said the artists’ works showed hard work and a gift of creativity bestowed upon them by the Creator. “Their designing ability and the holy scripts fuse into each other and the outcome is an aesthetic pleasure for the viewer.” RAC Resident Director Waqar Ahmed said it was an honour for him and the gallery that the artworks of seasoned calligraphers were being displayed for the public. The exhibition includes calligraphy with mixed media on canvas, oil on canvas, mixed media on board and acrylic canvas depicting Quranic verses in an impressive manner.
