Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: In order to promote paintings, the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on Tuesday held a solo exhibition of paintings by renowned master artist Muhammad Javed. The exhibition was followed by a book launch ceremony on the artist’s life and artworks, “Muhammad Javed – A Versatile Artist.” Secretary Fareena Mazhar inaugurated the exhibition at the National Art Gallery of PNCA.
Muhammad Javed is known as a pioneer arts and veteran artist in Pakistan, with a unique style, technique, and versatility. He has been practicing since his graduation from NCA in 1962 and has several solo shows to his credit nationally and internationally.
Javed created his own idiom, painted urban heritage, and delineated socio-economic, political, and cultural issues. Javed did innovative artwork to document artistic travelogue of various countries. He explored new aspects of modern calligraphic paintings. He is also an acclaimed writer and is popular for his valuable contribution to promoting art.
The opening event was followed by a book launch ceremony, “Muhammad Javed – A Versatile Artist.” On the occasion, the guest speakers included Dr. Ajaz Anwar, a celebrated watercolorist, art educationist, conservationist, and historian, who has, over the years, depicted the rich culture and importance of old Lahore through his paintings work, Dr. Shaukat Mehmood, the editor of the book and a famous personality in the field of arts.
Book launch ceremony at PNCA
Dr. Arjum and Faisal, one of the leading gallerists of Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Mamoona Khan, HOD of the fine arts department of Fatima Jinnah University, and Shabnam Abbasi, author of the book, had an interesting discussion with the artist himself who was present as one of the panelists.
The book revolved around the artist’s life and work and was published in 2021. He has contributed a lot in the field of fine arts during his six decades of professional career as an artist.
It is an excellent opportunity for PNCA to pay tribute to a living legend, said Director General PNCA Ayub Jamali.
Many audiences attended the show, including artists, students, notables, government officials and media, etc. Many students visited the exhibition and interviewed the artist about his techniques and art practice.
