Saima Fazal: custodian of a fading artistic tradition

Saima Fazal, a seasoned artist from Multan, has spent the past twenty years mastering the intricate craft of creating women's purses, chadors, and other items from colourful artificial pearls.

This traditional art form passed down through generations, is a blend of beauty and heritage that Saima has kept alive despite the challenges she faces.

Saima, who learned the skill from her mother and grandmother, has made it both her passion and her livelihood. Over the years, she has crafted a variety of items, including necklaces and embellished chadors, using colourful beads.

However, the complexity and time-consuming nature of the work have taken a toll on her eyesight. Despite this, she remains dedicated to her craft, which has become a source of income for her family.

"I have two children, Ibrahim and Fiza, who are deeply connected to my work," Saima shared. "My husband, Shahid Nawaz, supports me by ordering pearls from China."

In addition to her current work, Saima has ambitious plans for the future. "I wish to create portraits of prominent Pakistani figures like Fatima Jinnah, Benazir Bhutto, and Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif using pearls," she said, noting that she will begin this project soon.

Saima expressed concern over the declining interest in this ancient art form, which has been practised for centuries. "It takes months to complete a single piece," she explained, "and while my work is appreciated at folk fairs and exhibitions, the financial returns are minimal." Despite the growing demand for her work in major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Multan, she faces the challenge of rising material costs, particularly for imported pearls from China and Japan.

Her participation in exhibitions organized by Folk Heritage and the Punjab Arts Council has earned her recognition, but the rising cost of glass beads and the intricate process of sketching and creating each masterpiece continues to pose challenges.

Muhammad Salim, the director of the Punjab Arts Council in Multan, praised Saima's work, emphasising the importance of supporting artists. "Our role is to provide a platform for talented individuals like Saima.

Talents like hers are our asset, and Multan, as the cradle of Punjab's culture, is proud of its artisans, he stated.

Saima's dedication to her craft ensures that the age-old tradition of beadwork continues to thrive, preserving a unique part of Pakistan's cultural heritage.