Exhibit highlights libraries' cultural significance

Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) and OffGrid Studios presented "Rebinding the Library: An Artistic Intervention" during a week-long exhibition which kicked off at the PNCA's National Art Gallery the other day.

The exhibition was opened to the public on February 4 and will continue until February 11, with daily opening hours between 10am and 4pm. This compelling exhibition features the perspectives of 19 talented artists exploring the theme of libraries and the pursuit of knowledge.

Inaugurated by esteemed artist and curator Dr Arjumand Faisal, alongside DG PNCA Ayoub Jamali, the exhibition marks the culmination of a three-week art residency held in October 2024, a collaborative effort between PNCA and the independent art platform OffGrid.

Showcasing a diverse mix of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, collages, and video installations, the exhibition encourages viewers to reflect on the evolving role of libraries as cultural sanctuaries, spaces for learning, and symbols of intellectual heritage.

The participating artists, ranging from emerging to established names, offer unique interpretations of libraries, highlighting their significance and the urgent need for their preservation.

The exhibition features Akhter Iqbal's series inspired by Allama Iqbal's poetry, Khurram Babary's exploration of nature's complexity, and Faiza Gondal's evocative paintings of libraries as spaces of personal growth. Jacob Joseph's detailed paintings pay homage to historic libraries and literary figures, resonating deeply with visitors.

Lubna Jehangir presents an artistic interpretation of poet Fahmida Riaz's defiant verse, blending literature and visual art into functional, thought-provoking pieces. Tanzeel Babary merges painting with textile design, while Nuzhat Khawar's collages celebrate the beauty of nature.

Sidra Ashraf's illumination patterns serve as metaphors for untouched books, and Zain Shakeel's video installation captures the multifaceted nature of written knowledge.

Exploring diverse themes, Zarar Babary's work highlights the hidden treasures of libraries, Nadia Raza's paintings reflect spontaneous thoughts, and Tayyaba Aziz emphasizes the power of education for girls through bold, confident strokes. Shahzeb Ahmed's Braille art offers an interactive experience, challenging societal norms and celebrating resilience.