The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) inaugurated In Trinity Together: A Retrospective of Raja Changez Sultan, celebrating the extraordinary journey of one of Pakistan's most distinguished painter-poets.
Curated by Noor Fatima, with Exhibition Manager Sarah Rajper, the retrospective brings together seven of Raja Changez Sultan's major series including The Himalayan Odyssey, The Three Graces, A Thousand Faces of Eve, The Wood Nymphs, Birds of Paradise, Divided Self and a series never exhibited before: Crucifixion of Eve. The exhibition consists of over 100 paintings, offering a profound exploration of Sultan's lifelong dialogue between painting and poetry. The works traverse vast Himalayan landscapes, mythical archetypes and intimate portraits of the human condition, creating a powerful reflection on memory, identity and transcendence.
Speaking on the event, Raja Changez Sultan said that this retrospective is both a culmination and a continuation of his artistic journey. "Each series represents not just my experiences but the larger human condition - from the awe of the mountains to the grace of human relationships. I am deeply grateful to PNCA for honouring my work and for bringing it before audiences in this way."
National Heritage & Culture Division Secretary Asad Rehman Gilani commended the artist's six decades of creative excellence, calling his paintings profound meditations on life and a vital contribution to Pakistan's cultural legacy.
The Chief Guest, Natalie A. Baker, congratulated the artist and PNCA on presenting a remarkable retrospective. She noted that Raja Changez Sultan's works have long been part of the cultural spaces of the United States Embassy in Pakistan, reflecting the deep connections between the two countries through art. She further said that "In Trinity Together" not only celebrates the extraordinary journey of Raja Changez Sultan but also underscores the role of art in building dialogue, understanding and friendship across nations.
The evening marked not only a celebration of Sultan's prolific career but also a poignant homecoming. Having once served as Director General of PNCA, his return as the subject of tribute underscores his enduring contributions to Pakistan's cultural landscape.
As part of the exhibition, PNCA will host a special day of programming on Thursday, September 25, 2025, providing audiences an opportunity to engage more deeply with the artist's multifaceted practice. It will include sessions such as an artists' talk, painting demonstration and poetry reading. In Trinity Together will remain on view at PNCA Gallery 1, Gallery 2, and Grand Hall, Islamabad, until October 1, 2025.
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