“Documenting the National Art Gallery” by Naeem Pasha Launched

The event celebrated Pasha’s remarkable journey

in creating and curating the National Art Gallery

offering an in-depth look at its history

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The iconic Mohatta Palace witnessed the launch of Naeem Pasha’s highly anticipated book, “Documenting the National Art Gallery”. The event celebrated Pasha’s remarkable journey in creating and curating the National Art Gallery, offering an in-depth look at its history, evolution, and impact on Pakistan’s art landscape.

Hosted by media mogul Hameed Haroon, the evening delved into Pasha’s struggles, achievements, and invaluable contributions to Pakistan’s art and cultural heritage. The event’s distinguished guests included Naeem Pasha himself and renowned journalist Kathy Gannon.

Acknowledging Karachi’s Role in Art Development

During the event, Pasha expressed gratitude for Karachi’s often-overlooked contributions to the arts. He noted, “While Lahore is considered the center of art in Pakistan, Karachi has made commendable efforts to foster its artistic identity.” Reflecting on his journey, Pasha highlighted the paradoxical growth of art during Zia-ul-Haq’s Martial Law era.

Pasha praised iconic Pakistani artists such as Sadequain, Zahoor ul Akhlaq, and Rashid Rana for preserving the originality of Pakistani art, contrasting them with artists in India who, he argued, heavily imitated Western styles.

The Journey of the National Art Gallery

Pasha shed light on the challenges of designing the National Art Gallery, a project that began in 2003 and culminated in its inauguration in 2007. “Designing the gallery was a monumental challenge,” he shared, describing his persistent efforts to engage government officials and emphasize the importance of cultural spaces.

His architectural philosophy centered on enhancing the viewer’s experience through natural light. “I never design a building from the outside in, but from the inside out. The experience within is what matters most,” Pasha explained, adding that his galleries prioritize art objects over architectural grandeur.

Pasha also addressed criticism for showcasing controversial artworks, including nude paintings, stating his unwavering commitment to presenting authentic Pakistani art on a global stage.

A Call for Cultural Participation

In his concluding remarks, Pasha stressed the importance of public engagement in cultural development. “Every revolution begins with a dream—my designs aim to make my fairy tale dreams a reality,” he said, advocating for the better use of cultural spaces and sustainable growth in the arts sector.

Musical Enchantment and a Seminal Work

The event featured a captivating sitar recital by Ustad Nafees Ahmed, adding a soulful touch to the evening.

Pasha’s book, hailed as a seminal work, chronicles his 27-year journey, architectural brilliance, and dedication to the National Art Gallery. It captures the creative process, political challenges, and collaborations with prominent figures like Aslam Azhar and Kishwar Naheed.