Cultural show: Iranian craft on display at Lok Virsa

Exhibition celebrates anniversary of Iranian revolution


Our Correspondent February 02, 2016
Iranian artisans displaying their work include Ali Raza Sheikhi, Syeda Fahimi Kazmi, Ramzan Mohamar and Farangis Shadkam who bring their own unique forms of art. PHOTOS: EXPRESS

ISLAMABAD: Iran and Pakistan share significant cultural, traditional and religious bonds which an exhibition being held at Lok Virsa, celebrating the 37th anniversary of Iranian revolution, espouses.

At the opening ceremony, Executive Director Lok Virsa Dr Fauzia Saeed highlighted that Pakistan and Iran had a strong relationship not only because they are neighbours, but also because of their shared religion, similar customs, culture, and traditions.

She said that the gallery shows “the heavy influence of Iran on our language, attire and handicraft”, and that it instilled a need to invest more in the relationship between the two countries.

“Pakistan and Iran are extremely rich culturally, and can use the power of their culture to be an example for the entire world,” she added.

Iranian Ambassador Mehdi Honardost and Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid said both countries had much common ground to work on together, as both were the first to recognise each other as states internationally.

Moreover, Iranian Cultural Counsellor Shahaboddin Daraei said Islam had been divided into two factions, with one side endorsing harmony and the other hate and jealousy. “In such a scenario, an artist can never sit silently. In fact, an artist will use his or her skill to make a difference,” he said.



The Iranian artisans who are displaying their work at the cultural centre include Ali Raza Sheikhi, Syeda Fahimi Kazmi, Ramzan Mohamar and Farangis Shadkam who bring their own unique forms of art to the exhibition.

Ali Raza’s engraved metal dishes and wooden frames, Syeda Fahimi Kazmi’s miniature painting, Ramzan Moharma’s stone carving and wooden cut-work; and Farangis Shadkam’s embroidery and traditional dresses added much diversity to the exhibition.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Iranian artisan Ali Raza Sheikhi said that it is an honour for him to showcase his work in Pakistan. “Lok Virsa is a perfect place to exhibit art and cultural work and handicrafts and this experience will add to my skills and creativity,” he said.

The Iranian craft exhibition will continue till February 4 at the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 3rd, 2016.

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