The Sindh government has announced plans to establish a permanent gallery and organise a conference dedicated to the celebrated Pakistani painter Sadequain, whose rare works were described as a cornerstone of the nation’s cultural identity.
According to information today, the commitment was made during the inauguration of the ‘Rawish-e-Qalandar’ art exhibition, an event organised by the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi to commemorate the 39th death anniversary of the internationally acclaimed artist.
The exhibition, held at the Ahmed Pervez Art Gallery, was inaugurated by Sindh Provincial Minister for Culture, Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah, and President of the Arts Council, Muhammad Ahmed Shah. Curated by Farrukh Shahab, Chairman of the Fine Art Committee, the show features 27 pieces by a blend of ACP alumni and other distinguished Pakistani artists.
Participants, including Masood A. Khan, A.S. Rind, and Moeen Farooqi, presented artworks inspired by Sadequain’s iconic style, reflecting his profound influence on the country”s contemporary art scene.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Zulfiqar Ali Shah stated that the gathering was a tribute to the celebrated muralist, with creators from across Pakistan contributing works that incorporate Sadequain’s renowned motifs. He emphasised the scarcity of the master”s original pieces and stressed the importance of promoting his and other national artists” legacies to fortify Pakistan”s cultural identity for younger generations.
The Minister confirmed that the Arts Council remains a vital platform for emerging talent and that a conference and a permanent gallery would be established to honour the painter”s significant contributions.
Muhammad Ahmed Shah described Sadequain as a visionary and a national cultural symbol whose work brought global recognition to Pakistan, earning him prestigious accolades in France and the United Kingdom. He also recounted his successful campaign to have Sadequain posthumously awarded Pakistan”s highest civil honour, the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, 34 years after his passing.
Curator Farrukh Shahab remarked that the exhibition was organised to celebrate the life and work of the great painter. He also extended his appreciation to the provincial minister for his sustained support of art and cultural institutions in Pakistan.
The commemorative exhibition drew a large number of art enthusiasts and will remain open to the public until 17 February at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi.