From Hala, with love: Defining evolution from ancient craft to current innovation

Exhibition goes on display and will continue through till November 4

LAHORE: The Nairang Art Gallery is currently showcasing pieces from Hala, inspired from Sufi mausoleums, antique jharokas, decorated glazed ceramics, ornaments, traditional carpets and art prints with rich details.

The crafts exhibition went on display on Monday and will continue till November 4.

Speaking with The Express Tribune, notable architect and the gallery’s owner, Nayyar Ali Dada, says people of the region are famous for their rich tradition and centuries old craft. However, the intent of this exhibition is to showcase the evolution of the craft from its roots and how young artisans are taking on the mantle.



Dada says that crafts of older times from different artisans have been collected and presented alongside the new pieces at the exhibition.



He says that the main idea is to point out departures which are taking place and the new dimensions that are coming up. For example, some pieces here have nothing to do with traditional crafts, but they represent new ideas that youngsters are coming up with, he adds.

According to Dada, young artists are creating novel dimensions, mediums and languages infused with traditional arts, where one can find departure, experiment and innovation. “It has become a very interesting exhibition which is showing its travel in time—giving an idea of how and where we started and in what direction we are headed.”



Dada adds that although the traditional old crafts are remarkable and masterpieces in their own right, they fail to undergo innovation.  However, young artists are working in abstract dimensions, which we can call being innovative and creative, he concludes.

According to one of the organisers and architect Hyder Ibrahim, Nairang Art Gallery is the fusion of arts, crafts, music, literature and cuisine. “We have operated in an attempt to bring together these fields of culture by hosting successful exhibitions, dinners, conferences and events which allowed visitors a range of experiences under one roof.”

He adds that in respect to craftsmen and artisans, the gallery hopes to expose interesting works in ceramic tiles, carpets, lights, chandeliers and furniture which reflect the skills of artists in the exhibition.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 27^th, 2017.