LAHORE: The Lahore Arts Council will restore the only outdoor mural in the metropolis at Alhamra Art Centre, The Mall, made by Mian Ejazul Hassan to improve its look and structure, and unveil it again in a ceremony attended by visual artists and other guests.

Made in 80s, the mural done in a technique used by Mughals is a huge art piece based on the concept -- ‘Take Art to Common People’. The mural depicts drama of everyday life, including a rooster wandering around, children playing traditional games such as Keeri kara, characters from romantic tales of Punjab such as Heer Ranjha, Mirza, Qaidu etc, standing under a tree full of blossoming flowers. It also shows cotton picking women and women netting grains, reflecting a pastoral society. It’s an artpiece which is about the common people of Punjab.

Mian Ejazul Hassan, while talking about his mural, told Dawn that the kind of Punjab shown in it could be seen no more. He yearns for a Punjab which was a land of abundance in every respect, including food, comfort, love, peace and tolerance. He said there should be more such murals in Lahore.

“I can point out spots where such murals should be built.”

He regretted that the elite of Lahore who had got surplus money hadn’t endeavored to come up with various art-related installations in the city. He lauded LAC arts and culture director Zulfiqar Ali Zulfi for his support in the making of the mural.

“Zulfi was also my model for the mural,” Mr Hassan added.

Mr Zulfi said the LAC wanted to preserve this unique art piece which was still intact and was in good condition.

“We shall install new lights under and around the mural, enhance its beauty, preserve its colour scheme and hold a grand ceremony in which the creator of the mural and other artists will be invited to speak on its historical importance.”

The ceremony will tentatively be held by the end of November, he added.

Published in Dawn, November 6th, 2019