ISLAMABAD: A collection of sculptures, paintings and drawings, all carrying messages of peace and harmony were displayed at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on Thursday. The title of the exhibition isForms of Existence.

The show features 20 works, including a large installation in the courtyard, made by one of the first female sculptors of Pakistan, Rabia Zuberi, that have been gifted to the council’s gallery.

“Her artworks represent humanism. Through various mediums, she voices out to the world to seek love, forgiveness, social justice and peace,” said one of the organisers of the exhibition.

Some of her prominent works including Peace message from the progressive world is a part of the National Art Gallery’s permanent collection besides other pieces.

Ms Zuberi is a sculptor, painter, teacher and the former chairperson of the Pakistan Arts Council. She produced most of her work after immigrating to Pakistan and is the recipient of numerous national awards for art, including the president’s Pride of Performance.

PNCA’s unique programmes showcase traditional and contemporary art practices that reflect upon the excellence and cultural diversity of Pakistan as well as support professional development of the artist, organisers of the show told Dawn.

The council is committed towards promoting significant aspects of the country and encourages community participation in gallery activities, fostering curatorial practice and encouraging a healthy and sustainable local art industry, one of the organisers said, adding that PNCA maintains a range of regionally focused visual art exhibitions featuring both nationally and internationally recognised artists.

The works will be on display till Feb 10 in Gallery 3 on the ground floor.

Published in Dawn, February 4th, 2022