‘The Barracks’ art gallery opens at historic Nasser Bagh
Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman inaugurated a new art gallery, "The Barracks," developed by the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) at the iconic Nasser Bagh in Lahore on Sunday.
The event, attended by artists and the general public, featured a star-studded gathering, with renowned painter Imran Qureshi among the prominent guests.
The art gallery finds its home in a spacious basement within the park, formerly occupied by the Department of Civil Defence.
Extensively renovated by the PHA, "The Barracks" aims to serve as a vibrant space for art enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
The inaugural exhibition, titled "The Garden," showcased a diverse collection of artistic expressions, drawing admiration from the attendees.
Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, serving as the chief guest, commended PHA Director General Muhammad Tahir Wattoo for spearheading this initiative.
Zaman expressed his enthusiasm for the establishment of more art venues to further explore the expansive field of art. Prominent painter Imran Qureshi added an artistic flair to the occasion, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the gallery's opening.
In his remarks, Tahir Wattoo compared painters to dreamers, emphasizing how their art often resembles a dream where disparate elements come together to form a cohesive picture.
He acknowledged the potential for additional art galleries in the provincial capital.
Nasser Bagh, a British-era park situated between Lower Mall and Katchery Road, shares its vicinity with esteemed institutions like Government College University (GCU), the University of the Punjab, and the National College of Arts (NCA).
Frequented by locals seeking respite from urban life, the park has undergone recent renovations by the PHA, enhancing its visual appeal.
These renovations include lush green grass, colourful flower beds, floodlights, and the revitalisation of the park's fountain. Preventive measures against dengue, such as anti-larva medicine application, have also been implemented.
The removal of the boundary wall aims to provide a fresh visual experience, according to Wattoo.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 5th, 2024.