In the heart of Lahore, where colonial facades meet the pulse of contemporary creativity, stands the National College of Arts (NCA) - an institution
In the heart of Lahore, where colonial facades meet the pulse of contemporary creativity, stands the National College of Arts (NCA) – an institution that has, for over a century, shaped Pakistan’s artistic identity. At its helm since 2013 is Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri, a man whose journey from painter to policy-
maker has not only revitalized NCA but also redefined the contours of art education in the country.
Before he was Vice Chancellor, Dr. Jafri was – and remains – a prolific artist. His canvases, often compact, are fields where text and imagery intertwine, inviting viewers into layered narratives. His work
has graced esteemed venues such as Oklahoma State University, King’s College Hospital London, and the High Commission of Pakistan in London. Dr. Jafri’s artistic philosophy challenges conventional boundaries, creating an intimate connection between the viewer and the artwork.
His academic journey is as diverse as his art. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from NCA in 1986, he pursued advanced studies at Chelsea College of Arts in London, Concordia University and Université de Montréal in Canada, and completed his PhD in Fine Art at the University of East London. This international exposure enriched his perspective, blending Eastern aesthetics with Western methodologies.
When Dr. Jafri assumed leadership in 2013, NCA was grappling with administrative challenges. He swiftly
addressed the issues in various capacities and also embarked on a journey to get NCA the federal charter. Under his stewardship, NCA transitioned from an annual to a semester system, aligning with global academic standards.
Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri’s vision for the National College of Arts is rooted in both admiration for tradition and a bold drive toward innovation and inclusivity. Over his transformative tenure, he has redefined what it means to be an artist, educator, and administrator in Pakistan. Infrastructure development has flourished during his tenure. New facilities, including a new wing of girls’ hostel, a Mac lab for film and television editing, and the plan of a new graduate block at the Lahore campus, were established. The new block is now under construction in the shadow of his leadership. He also initiated the construction of a new building at NCA’s Rawalpindi campus. To promote sustainability, solar panels and a water filtration plant were installed, reflecting his commitment to environmental consciousness.
In a significant move to decentralize art education and make it accessible to remote regions, Dr. Jafri inaugurated NCA’s Gilgit-Baltistan campus in 2024. This initiative, in collaboration with the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, aims to provide local students with high-quality art and design education, promoting creative talent in the region. The campus offers an Associate Degree Program, marking a pivotal step in integrating the rich cultural heritage of Gilgit-Baltistan into the national art narrative.
Dr. Jafri’s vision extended beyond campus boundaries. He forged partnerships with institutions in France, Iran, China, the UK, and the USA, facilitating student exchanges and scholarships. Community engagement was another cornerstone of his leadership. He launched short courses in various art forms, making arts education accessible to a broader population. These initiatives not only nurtured local talent but also cultivated a culture of inclusivity and creativity. Beyond administrative reforms, Dr. Jafri emphasizes academic rigor and cultural heritage. He supervised PhD candidates at the University of the Punjab and played a pivotal role in designing the PhD Fine Arts Studio Practice course at the Punjab University.
His commitment to preserving traditional arts led to the revival of the historic Tollinton Market, transforming it into a hub for artisans practicing dying crafts like silk weaving and calligraphy. This initiative not only safeguarded cultural heritage but also provided employment opportunities for local craftsmen. As part of the National College of Arts’ (NCA) 150th anniversary celebrations, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri has initiated a series of events and projects that highlight the institution’s legacy and future aspirations.
The sesquicentennial celebrations commenced with a symposium titled “For the Record: Documenting Teaching and Learning in Art & Design Education,” which also marked the launch of JADEP, Pakistan’s first peer-reviewed journal dedicated to art and design education. This event set the tone for a year-long series of activities honoring NCA’s rich history and its role in shaping the country’s artistic landscape. The Journal of Art and Design Education Pakistan (JADEP) stands as a testimony to Dr. Jafri’s dedication to academic excellence. As the country’s first blind peer-reviewed journal in the field, JADEP aims to adopt critical discourse, innovative research, and intellectual exploration in art and design education. The journal provides a platform for educators, researchers, and practitioners to share insights and developments, contributing to the evolution of art education both regionally and globally.
Further cementing NCA’s role as a beacon of artistic innovation, Dr. Jafri announced the launch of Pakistan’s first-ever Triennale, titled “Kasb-e-Kamal Kun,” set to commence in October 2025. This triennial event will convene a diverse array of artists from around the globe, featuring major visual arts exhibitions, seminars, symposia, and performing arts festivals. The Triennale not only commemorates NCA’s 150-year legacy but also positions Pakistan prominently on the international art stage.
Dr. Jafri’s multifaceted contributions have garnered national recognition. He received presidential commendations for promoting accessibility in education and was appointed to committees overseeing facilities for special children in educational institutions. His artworks continue to inspire, reflecting a deep understanding of contemporary issues and a commitment to artistic innovation.
As an artist, educator, and administrator, Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri has indelibly shaped the landscape of art education in Pakistan. His visionary leadership at NCA stands as a witness to the transformative power of integrating creativity with strategic foresight. Dr. Jafri’s vision is one of continuity and evolution: a future where NCA remains both a guardian of heritage and a laboratory of the avant-garde
