The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), in collaboration with the Sadequain Foundation USA, hosted an exclusive art exhibition honoring the 95th birth anniversary of the legendary Pakistani artist, Sadequain. The special exhibition showcased over 100 selected artworks from PNCA’s permanent collection, paying tribute to the extraordinary artistic legacy and cultural contributions of one of Pakistan’s most celebrated art icons.
The exhibition included murals, paintings, and intricate marble sculptures, reflecting the broad spectrum of Sadequain’s artistic vision. These unique artistic pieces were gifted by Sadequain himself to PNCA during his lifetime and are permanently displayed at the National Art Gallery in Islamabad, demonstrating the artist’s generous spirit and lasting legacy.
Born on June 30, 1930, Sadequain rose to prominence with his distinctive style, transformative symbolism, bold strokes, and powerful thematic content that resonated profoundly with diverse segments of Pakistani society. During the 1950s, his revolutionary artistic vision and relentless passion dramatically transformed Pakistan’s cultural sphere, making him an iconic figure celebrated by both intellectual elites and common citizens alike.
An insightful artist talk was a highlight of the commemorative event, featuring presentations from leading experts who deeply admire and have studied Sadequain’s artistic legacy. Dr. Salman Ahmed, author of “The Saga of Sadequain” and founder of the Sadequain Foundation USA, delivered a thoughtful address through a special video message. He elaborated on the life, work, and significance of the master artist, and emphasized the Foundation’s ongoing mission to preserve and promote Sadequain’s artistic heritage. Dr. Ahmed warmly praised the efforts of PNCA Director General Ayoub Jamali, Visual Arts Division Director Mariam Ahmed, and Foundation Representative Zohaib Chaudhar, recognizing their successful cooperative endeavors.
Ambassador Ali Sarwar Naqvi, Executive Director of the Centre for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Islamabad, shared invaluable personal recollections reflecting upon the times he spent in the company of the legendary artist. Major General (retired) Dr. Farrukh Seir, artist and founder of Gallery 21 Islamabad, provided additional depth by recounting personal interactions with Sadequain, bringing forth unique understanding of his character, temperament, and artistic methodology.
Renowned artist and lecturer Zarar Haider Babry from Islamic International University Islamabad discussed Sadequain’s signature artistic techniques. He urged young artists, scholars, and researchers to thoroughly explore and document the extensive and diverse artistic corpus produced over Sadequain’s career. Adding further context, Dr. Tayyeba Aziz, a respected visual artist and retired professor from the Art and Design Department at the University of Peshawar, conducted an extensive analysis of Sadequain’s symbolic imagery and artistic media. Dr. Aziz notably drew compelling parallels between Sadequain’s style and the creative expressions of Pablo Picasso, evaluating the comparative approaches displayed in their use of color, form, and technique.
The commemorative event concluded with a guided tour of Gallery Sadequain at PNCA, enabling students, art enthusiasts, and the public to experience first-hand the intimate presence of the great maestro’s work. The artworks continue to serve as an enduring source of inspiration, perpetually displayed in Gallery No. 4 of the PNCA National Art Gallery.
Through exhibitions such as these, PNCA reaffirms its enduring commitment toward preserving Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and fostering meaningful international collaborations, exemplified by their ongoing partnership with the Sadequain Foundation USA.
