KARACHI: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Patron-in-chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Sunday inaugurated ‘Art Fest’ – part of the ongoing biggest cultural activity Sindh Festival – at Frere Hall.
Speaking on the occasion, Bilawal said, “The sole purpose of organising Sindh Festival and Art Fest is to preserve and protect our cultural heritage sites as well as to promote rich art culture of Sindh. Almost one and half month ago I asked Sameera Raja and Aqeela to volunteer Art Fest and in this short span, they have done very well.”
Acknowledging the hard work of volunteers, he said, “We all know about the culture of Pakistan. It is time to bring our cultural values before the world.”
The strength of the contemporary art of Pakistan lies in the quality and diversity of artists who work with a global vocabulary without geographical boundaries, while retaining their unique sense of belonging, Bilawal said.
“The work that comes out of Pakistan has a deep connection to the region, its people and its own specific and interesting issues.”
After the inauguration speech, the event was formally inaugurated with the art performance by famous artist Amin Gulgee, in which he along with his fellows presented a unique dance performance on high beam music beats. Later, a dance performance was also staged by Umer Rahim.
Sindh Festival, which will run until February 15, has received huge attention as a number of artists are presenting their work at Sadequain Art Gallery of Frere Hall.
Almost 60 art pieces on display include Benazir Bhutto’s private art collection in the gallery. The art pieces were of every kind, including sculptures, paintings, portrays and others.
Rehana Mangi presented two ‘KaraGulla Black Flowers’ on the medium of human hair on wasli paper (hand made paper). In both art pieces small hair made flowers were installed but for spectators it seem like pencil work.
Ayaz Jokhio presented ‘99 Self Portraits’ on acrylic paint on print on canvas.
The artist presented 100 portrays of himself in different attires and look.
Shakil Saigol presented a painting in which Benazir Bhutto is in a deep thought while Malala Yousufzai is also there.
A large number of notable personalities, including Sherry Rehman, Owais Muzzaffar, Shehryar Taseer and Sameera Raja, graced the event.
Bilawal also cut the ribbon at Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim Park in Clifton on Sunday, officially starting Sindh Festival.
Traditional crafts display at Sindh Rural Support Organisation’s stall caught the attention of spectators. A mixture of Sindh’s handicrafts made by rural women was exhibited, including basketry, dresses, dupattas and home textiles.
