ISLAMABAD: ‘A Flight of Two Half Birds’, a travelling solo exhibition by Amna Walayat opened at the Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) on Monday.

Renowned visual artist and cultural icon Jamal Shah, who was the chief guest, inaugurated the exhibition along with PNCA Director General M. Ayoub Jamali.

The opening ceremony was attended by a distinguished audience, including prominent artists, scholars, diplomats and art enthusiasts.

Jamal Shah praised Amna’s work, emphasising its emotional depth and relevance to contemporary global issues.

In his remarks, Jamal Shah said: “Amna Walayat’s work is a testament to the resilience and creativity of artists who navigate complex personal and cultural narratives. Her ability to convey the anguish and hope of displacement through the timeless medium of miniature painting is remarkable. This exhibition not only sheds light on the challenges faced by migrants and expatriates but also serves as a bridge to foster empathy and understanding in a divided world.”

‘A Flight of Two Half Birds’ is an evocative exploration of the dualities faced by displaced individuals, drawing on Walayat’s own experiences as an Eastern Muslim woman and migrant artist.

Using Indo-Persian miniature painting techniques, her works incorporate powerful symbolism — such as butterflies, boats, and tulips — to convey themes of longing, resilience and adaptation.

The title, inspired by the Urdu phrase ‘Half Teetar, Half Batir’, reflects the fragmented identity experienced by those living between two worlds.

The exhibition also draws connections to historical and literary figures, including poets Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Bahadur Shah Zafar, whose works on exile and displacement resonate deeply with the themes explored in Walayat’s art.

The exhibition has previously been showcased at major venues in Ireland, including the Garden International in Limerick, Sirius Art Centre in Cork and The Dock Art Centre, as part of the 40th EVA International Platform Commission. Before arriving in Islamabad, it received widespread acclaim in Lahore at ArtSoch Contemporary.

The event was very well attended by luminaries, including representatives of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture Division, faculty members from leading art institutions, and prominent figures from Pakistan’s art community.

As part of the exhibition programming, Amna Walayat will host an Artist Talk on Wednesday at 11am at the PNCA auditorium.

This session will offer attendees an exclusive insight into her creative process, thematic inspirations, and the symbolism within her art.

The exhibition, which explores the themes of displacement, migration, and identity, will run until Dec 6.

Published in Dawn, December 3rd, 2024