This issue celebrates the world-renowned and highly acclaimed art educator, artist, curator and author, Noorjehan Bilgrami. The details are in the editorial!
Dear Readers,
We are pleased to bring you a very special and long-anticipated feature this month in Art Now Pakistan—an exclusive interview with the charismatic Noorjehan Bilgrami, beautifully portrayed by our very own Nusrat Khawaja.
Noorjehan Bilgrami is more than just a celebrated name in the art world—she’s a force of creativity to reckon with and continues to make Pakistan proud locally and internationally! The Dubai Expo and more recently at the Expo Pavilion Osaka Japan titled ‘The Universe is a grain of salt’ highlighting the pink salt from Pakistan and its therapeutic benefits. Both exhibitions were brilliantly conceptualised and remarkably executed by her.
Noorjehan’s legacy spans art, education, cultural preservation, and leadership—truly inspiring is her richer understanding of Pakistani craft traditions, which she has skillfully mastered.
Noorjehan has also authored influential works such as Sindh jo Ajrak, Clay, Cloth, Wood, Metal, and Stone: The Craft Traditions of Pakistan and Born of Fire (on ceramist Salahuddin Mian). She produced a documentary, Sun, Fire, River, Ajrak – Cloth from the Soil of Sindh, and curated exhibitions like Tana Bana: The Woven Soul of Pakistan, showcased internationally.
A recipient of the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz ( Medal of Excellence), Noorjehan was also given a Silver Award for Exhibition Design from the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), and the Hum Women Leaders Award, to name a few!
We are thrilled to announce that Qudsia Rahim, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Lahore Biennale Foundation, has been elected to the Board of the International Biennale Association (IBA).
Qudsia was elected as a majority vote member at the Annual General Assembly last month at Liverpool UK.
This is a historic honour for Pakistan and a significant milestone for South Asia. Congratulations, Qudsia! Wishing you continued success!
This issue also includes a thought-provoking editorial by Quddus Mirza and an interesting essay by Malaika Rahimtoola.
For a visual peek into what’s inside, our photo essay offers a snapshot of the highlights. You’ll also find insightful reviews from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
The Arts Council of Pakistan paid tribute to the extraordinary artistic journey of the late Imran Mir, one of Pakistan’s most influential and pioneering modern artists. Known for his bold visual language and deep engagement with abstraction, design, and minimalism, Mir’s work continues to inspire new generations. The commemorative evening featured a thoughtful panel discussion by Gibran Mir, Kiran
Ahmad, Farrukh Shahab Quddus Mirza, Noorjehan Bilgrami, and Shahid Abdullah. Durriya Kazi moderated this program.
Another pertinent and much-needed talk was given at the Arts Council on the gallerist/ artist Riffat Alvi. The talk was moderated by Niilofur Farrukh. Mehr Afroz, Romila Kareem, Munawar Ali Syed, Bushra Hussain and Farooq highlighted the endless contributions of Riffat Alvi in the field of art and how warmly she has kept the doors of VM Art Gallery open to promote and support art students.
The untimely passing away of Ghalib Baqar is a loss to the art world. He was known for his excellent watercolor techniques and abstract landscapes. May his soul rest in peace. Aameen
We hope you enjoy this month’s issue as we did putting it together for you!
Bye for NOW !!!