Australian photographer and blogger Gaynor Shaw held a photography exhibition of her work titled ‘Mythical Landscapes’, which primarily featured photographs of Pakistan’s northern areas at the Satrang Gallery in Islamabad.
Gaynor, who is also the spouse of Australia High Commissioner Dr Geoffrey Shaw, shared her journey of falling in love with the various landscapes in the country.
“After arriving in Islamabad two years ago, I knew I needed to tell a different, more positive story about Pakistan,” she said. “I started this blog ‘Postcards from Pakistan,’ to share not just the photos but stories from my travels throughout Pakistan.”
Gaynor’s fascination with northern Pakistan started with her trip to the northern areas of Pakistan— mainly Gilgit, Hunza, and Skardu. She was captivated by the beauty and grandeur of these magical landscapes, which she captured through her lens in this series of photographs.
“I kept hearing locals and friends speak about the beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan and the dramatic mountain landscapes. I knew I had to visit and see this magical landscape for myself,” said the photographer.
“My trip started in Gilgit, then on to Hunza, across to Skardu, Shigar, and ended in Khaplu. I came across stories of Shangri-la, myths and legends, and mountaineering heroes, such as Ali Sadpara. The descriptions I read of these breathtaking places do not do them justice. I hope my photographs do,” she added.
Australian High Commissioner Dr Geoffrey Shaw also spoke highly about the subject of the photographs.
“The exhibition showcases the timeless beauty of a truly spectacular part of the world. I’m sure it will help build further the cultural connections between our two countries, as well as promote the colourful, vibrant and diverse culture of the region,” he said.
Dr Shaw went on to state how art can often bridge the seemingly insurmountable differences of language, culture and the general way of life
“Art can often speak things that words cannot. It has a unique capacity to evoke emotions, to foster understanding and to connect people, including the people of Australia and Pakistan,” he said.
Satrang Gallery Founder and Director Asma Rashid Khan commended the exhibition for showcasing a mesmerising side of Pakistan.
“Satrang Gallery has always strived to promote art and artists from different countries as we believe art and culture build the best bridges between people and places,” said Asma. “We are honoured to showcase the works of Gaynor Shaw in Mythical Landscapes.”
Published in The Express Tribune, November 30th, 2021.
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