KARACHI: A book exhibition titled Landmarks of Pakistan by German painter Ute Elpers having pen-and-ink drawings of historical places in Pakistan attracted a discerning audience at the German Consulate in Karachi.

Speaking at the event held on Thursday evening, caretaker Tourism Minister Arshad Wali Mohammad said, “Today we have gathered to celebrate a remarkable fusion of art, culture and international cooperation exemplified by this coffee table book, an initiative of the German Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI). This project underscores the enduring ties between Germany and Pakistan highlighting cultural exchange and fostering mutual understanding. Let us acknowledge the extraordinary life and work of [the late] Ms Elpers, a gifted artist born in Germany in 1935.

“We celebrate the unveiling of the book Landmarks of Pakistan and it is an occasion to reflect on Ms Ute’s artistry and her unwavering dedication to Pakistan. Her legacy reminds us of the immense power of art and culture,” he said.

Tribute paid to late artist Ute Elpers

German Consul General in Karachi Dr Rudiger Lotz said, “Tonight it is an event where we do not talk [about] politics or business but about culture. The book has landmarks covering the country, all four provinces of Pakistan. We have in the book the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad and the Quaid-i-Azam Mausoleum in Karachi… and so on. What I found particularly charming is the old who loved this country, its people and culture and started to take her ink and pen to draw these buildings and the love of the country which she had never seen.

“She started to write poems and make these drawings and learn as much as possible about her adopted country. She was encouraged by a former German Defence Attaché in Pakistan many years ago. I think it’s a wonderful initiative to show how much centuries’ old, rich cultural heritage of Pakistan is appreciated in Germany,” he added.

In his welcome address, GPCCI president Pervaiz Akhtar said it is a bilingual book in English and Germany. “We have come together to unveil this remarkable work of Ute Elpers which combines in this book her masterful pen sketches.”

In that regard he called the image of a tomb in Bahawalpur a masterpiece and added that some of the iconic landmarks in the book convey Pakistan’s rich and diverse culture.

Published in Dawn, October 1st, 2023