In this special issue, we are taking our readers along with us into Noorjehan Bilgrami’s visual archives, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated cultural icons. These photographs trace her incredible journey over decades—moments that document not only her artistic journey but also the awards and recognition she has received at home and abroad. From her tireless work in restoring and propagating Pakistan’s craft heritage to the founding of Koel Gallery as a beacon for contemporary art, Noorjehan’s contributions are inscribed into the cultural life of the nation. Globally, her appearance at renowned platforms like the Dubai Expo, where she presented Pakistan with thunderous pride, and the Japan Pavilion, where her art transcended cultures, speaks volumes of her standing worldwide. As you leaf through these pictures, you catch glimpses of the milestones in a career marked by vision, strength, and excellence—each image a testament to how one woman’s commitment to art and craft has made an enduring contribution to generations ahead.
Picture courtesy: Noorjehan Bilgrami