Pakistan Embassy Launches “Pakistan Arts, Crafts, and Literature Series”
By Elaine Pasquini
Photos by Phil Pasquini
Washington: The Embassy of Pakistan hosted the first exhibition of its new “Pakistan Arts, Crafts, and Literature Series” featuring works by acclaimed modern Islamic calligrapher, Ayesha Kamal, on November 22, 2024.
“Islamic calligraphy is not just a visual art form, but a profound expression of faith and spirituality,” Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, said, welcoming diplomats, US government officials, cultural enthusiasts, media representatives and members of the Pakistani-American community. “It is a salient exponent of the rich cultural heritage yielded by the Islamic faith,” he said.
Tracing the historical evolution of the art form of beautiful, stylized hand lettering, Ambassador Sheikh underscored the significant contributions of the Muslim world, from the early Qur’anic manuscripts and inscriptions to the golden age of calligraphy during the Ottoman Empire.
In particular, Pakistani calligraphers have made significant contributions to the evolution and refinement of this art genre, he pointed out, including the iconic Syed Sadequain (1930-1987) and the Punjab-born Ustad Allah Bux (1895-1978).
Currently, however, works of calligraphy are still in demand by individual art collectors as well as museums, not only in Muslim countries but throughout the world.
Expressing his admiration for Kamal’s extraordinary talent, Ambassador Sheikh emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Pakistan’s rich art, literary and cultural heritage, to which end, he noted, the embassy will organize similar events in the future to highlight these spectacular areas of Pakistani culture.
Introducing the artist, Zaigham Abbas, press and cultural attaché, described Kamal’s work as transforming “beauty and energy onto canvas, creating vibrant colors and textures.” He noted her art has been exhibited globally, receiving widespread acclaim and featured on international media channels, including BBC. Recognizing Kamal’s exceptional talent in creating intricate details and masterful strokes, the Lahore-based calligrapher has been interviewed extensively.
In her remarks, Kamal expressed her gratitude to Ambassador Sheikh and his staff for their support in making the event possible. She also shared insights into the techniques and inspirations behind her art which showcase the intricate patterns and flowing script that define this ancient art form.
“I strive to emphasize the message of the Qur’an through my art,” Kamal told guests as they perused her works on display. “I believe that when you observe a piece of calligraphy your soul connects to a mystery, whether or not you understand the written words.” Visitors were fascinated by the beauty and precision of her artwork, which reflects the deep spiritual and cultural significance of Islamic calligraphy.
As the event wound down, guests enjoyed a delicious buffet of Pakistani culinary specialties, which are always a much-anticipated ending to the Pakistan Embassy’s cultural programs.
(Elaine Pasquini is a freelance journalist. Her reports appear in the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs and Nuze.Ink.)
