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    'Sadequain Ki Anjuman Mein' Commemorates 94th Birth Anniversary of the Legend

    Written by: Muhammad Hamza
    Posted on: June 20, 2024 | | 中文

    Treasures in Time by Sadequain

    In this latest exhibition and residency at Gallery 6 in Islamaad, Dr. Arjumand Faisel, the owner of Gallery 6 and the curator of this phenomenal residency program, highlighted the life and works of Sadequain. Many artists, who had submitted amazing artworks for the residency, were selected for this residency based on their works. In this two week residency, Dr. Arjumand has briefed the selected artists with Sadequain’s life and journey, his style of artworks, writings and his calligraphic artworks, so that these artists could create those beautiful artworks.

    Dr. Arjumand Faisel has been one of the finest art curators and storytellers of our modern times. He has enriched Islamabad with modern and classical art for many years, and offers residency programs to both established and young emerging artists, making a worthy contribution to the art community of Pakistan. He delves into the history of local artists and their contribution, and is knowledgeable about the history and culture of our local historic artists and writers. This month, he offered a nostalgic tribute to the legendary Sadequain on his 94th birth anniversary.

    Irfan Gul Dahri and Ramsha Khan delved into the history of Sadequain’s art and his contribution to modern and classical art throughout his career. Both the artists talked about Sadequain’s paintings, and his stylised portraits and drawings. These paintings also depict the hardships and difficulties that the legendary artist had faced during this time. It is commendable the way these artists associated themselves with his old techniques and conceptualised the grave detail through different mediums, from seeded to ceramic coated canvases.

    Paradise and other Fairytale Series - I by Irfan Gul Dahri

    In Asif Hussain and Hamza Qazi’s artworks, one notices that the artists explore a wide array of mediums in landscape, figures and drapery. We see that the artists have given a touch of nature and peace that was drenched in Sadequian sahib’s artworks. Sadequain through his writings had given a new meaning to a few verses of Quran. Inspired by him, Ubaid explored from Surah Rehman, ‘And which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?" (Surah Rahman: 55), as he mentions that I have bridged the gap between the sacred and the digital.

    Some of the artists in residency have taken inspiration from Sadequain’s unique portrait style, using various techniques to create abstract interpretations of his calligraphic works. Sadequain found a deep connection with abstract faces, and this fascination influenced artists like Mariam Arshad and Faheem Abbas. They’ve blended vibrant colors and rich textures to capture the essence of Sadequain’s life. Through their art, they reveal the depth of his character and his unwavering dedication to his craft. Their pieces, featuring everything from opaque silhouettes to intricately detailed figures, powerfully reflect the contrasts and struggles that defined Sadequain’s life

    Subtle Halo by Mariam Arshad

    Mariam Ahsen has contributed to the exhibition by portraying the beauty of poetic verses in Sadequain’s art. Her work captures the elegance and depth of his love for jewelry, which he collected throughout his life. Reflecting on his appreciation for beauty, Sadequain once said, "Mein husn ke anjuman naz mein hun" (I am the admirer in the assembly of beauty), and Ahsen’s pieces beautifully conceptualize this sentiment.

    In keeping with Sadequain’s legacy, these artists have explored Sadequain's work in great detail, capturing the profound knowledge that we experience through his perception. Their art is a feast for the visual senses and sacred in its own right. It epitomizes the essence of a Pakistani artist breathing life into his creations with humbleness and grace.

    Conversation by Mohsin ur Rehman

    In a homage to the legendary Sadequain, Farukh Shahab unveils two pieces inspired by the master's iconic "Head Series" and "Mystical Figuration" works. By blending these series, Farukh Sahab pays tribute to Sadequain's creative genius, creating a conversation between the past and the present that honors his innovative spirit.

    Sadequain Ki Anjuman Mein - II by Farrukh Shahab

    Nabiha Gillani shed light on the importance of continuing such artistic legacies. She explained how contemporary artists had meticulously studied Sadequain's intricate work, aiming to capture the depth of knowledge and beauty it offered. Gillani described experiencing Sadequain's art as a visual and spiritual treat, reflecting the soul of a Pakistani artist who infused his creations with humility and elegance. She also emphasized how Sadequain's art inspires children to explore the world's wonders through their own artistic expressions, nurturing their natural curiosity and creativity.

    Gallivanting by Nabiha Gillani

    Arjumand Faisel shared his journey with Sadequain, recounting a memorable evening spent in his presence. Even after 52 years, that experience continued to resonate deeply with him. By establishing residency programs and educating young artists about Sadequain’s legacy and artworks, Faisal ensures that Sadequain’s art and spirit remain vibrant in the contemporary era. Through his tributes and contributions, he keeps Sadequain’s legacy alive, inspiring future generations and honouring his enduring influence.


    As the new year begins, let us also start anew. I’m delighted to extend, on behalf of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and in my own name, new year’s greeting and sincere wishes to YOULIN magazine’s staff and readers.

    Only in hard times can courage and perseverance be manifested. Only with courage can we live to the fullest. 2020 was an extraordinary year. Confronted by the COVID-19 pandemic, China and Pakistan supported each other and took on the challenge in solidarity. The ironclad China-Pakistan friendship grew stronger as time went by. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor projects advanced steadily in difficult times, become a standard-bearer project of the Belt and Road Initiative in balancing pandemic prevention and project achievement. The handling capacity of the Gwadar Port has continued to rise and Afghanistan transit trade through the port has officially been launched. The Karakoram Highway Phase II upgrade project is fully open to traffic. The Lahore Orange Line project has been put into operation. The construction of Matiari-Lahore HVDC project was fully completed. A batch of green and clean energy projects, such as the Kohala and Azad Pattan hydropower plants have been substantially promoted. Development agreement for the Rashakai SEZ has been signed. The China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future has become closer and closer.

    Reviewing the past and looking to the future, we are confident to write a brilliant new chapter. The year 2021 is the 100th birthday of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. The 100-year journey of CPC surges forward with great momentum and China-Pakistan relationship has flourished in the past 70 years. Standing at a new historic point, China is willing to work together with Pakistan to further implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, connect the CPEC cooperation with the vision of the “Naya Pakistan”, promote the long-term development of the China-Pakistan All-weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership with love, dedication and commitment. Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan said, “We are going through fire. The sunshine has yet to come.” Yes, Pakistan’s best days are ahead, China will stand with Pakistan firmly all the way.

    YOULIN magazine is dedicated to promoting cultural exchanges between China and Pakistan and is a window for Pakistani friends to learn about China, especially the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is hoped that with the joint efforts of China and Pakistan, YOULIN can listen more to the voices of readers in China and Pakistan, better play its role as a bridge to promote more effectively people-to-people bond.

    Last but not least, I would like to wish all the staff and readers of YOULIN a warm and prosper year in 2021.

    Nong Rong Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
    The People’s Republic of China to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
    January 2021