ISLAMABAD: An exhibition titled Ode to the Modern Masters, showcasing sculptures, drawings, ceramics and engravings from the permanent collection of Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) opened on Wednesday.

Shafqat Mehmood, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, who announced the display open to the public, said the exhibition was like a breath of fresh air after a long time.

He said the pandemic had affected peoples’ lifestyles significantly. “Pakistan National Council of the Arts is the proud custodian of artworks by leading Pakistani artists. PNCA’s collection includes art pieces by internationally renowned names such as Sadequain, Shakir Ali, Abdul Rehman Chughtai, Zahoor ul Akhlaq and many others, which is a great asset of our country,” Mr Mehmood added.

Visitors described the exhibition as an important initiative. It presented a collection of sculptures, ceramics, engravings and drawings by famous artists including Akram Dost Baloch, Abbas Shah, Amin Gulgee, Anjum Ayaz, Elizabeth Dadi, Fauzia Aziz Minallah, David Alesworth, Jamil Baloch, Mian Salahuddin and Rabia Zuberi from the permanent collection of PNCA.

Guests appreciated the PNCA and Visual Arts Division, to present this exciting display in honour of the modern artists of Pakistan. Senior sculptor and visual artist Abbas Shah was the guest of honour. Shah is a self taught sculptor based in Islamabad.

He said the show was an important opportunity for the young generation to see the work of senior artists and sculptors and he appreciated PNCA for arranging the exhibition.

An audience of artists, families and art lovers from the twin cities attended the display.

Published in Dawn, October 15th, 2021