'Sindhu Sur' exhibit revives traditional Sindhi arts

Gives centre stage to artists from Sindh who drew inspiration from region's cultural, spiritual legacy

ISLAMABAD:

'Sindhu Sur – Melody of Sindhu', an exhibition which celebrates the profound cultural, poetic and artistic heritage of Sindh through a diverse collection of contemporary works that blend illumination, geometry and traditional visual languages, has been organised at the PNCA. The exhibition will continue till October 30 from 10am to 4pm.

In the works presented at the exhibition, artists draw inspiration from the Sindh's artistic and spiritual legacy, incorporating Ajrak patterns, ralli designs, Makli structures and the sacred geometry of Thatta. Through layered forms, rhythmic compositions, and symbolic motifs, the exhibition pays homage to Sindh's unique visual identity—where geometry breathes, colour speaks and tradition endures. Each artwork reflects the warmth of Sindhi hospitality and celebrates the enduring dialogue between craftsmanship and creative expression.

Sindhu Sur brings together a vibrant group of artists from Sindh—including Shahzad Zar, Muzammil H. Chandio, Ayman Babar, Mehrin Haseeb, Mahnoor Fatima, Munazza Khan, Aniqa Fatima, Hina Muhammad, and Ambreen Shah—comprising recent graduates and faculty members of the VM Centre for Traditional Arts, Karachi, alongside Muzammil H. Chandio, a graduate of the National College of Arts, Lahore. Together, they explore the intersections of faith, craft, and aesthetics, reviving traditional Sindhi motifs while reinterpreting them through a contemporary lens.

The exhibition was conceptualised and curated by Nomad Gallery Founder Nageen Hyat. Speaking about the exhibition, Nageen shared, "It gives me great pleasure to present Sindhu Sur – Melody of Sindhu, which highlights the rich culture of Sindh through the visual medium of illumination and contemporary art. The participating artists seek to revive local and regional artistic skills in order to revitalise the relevance of traditional arts in Pakistan."

It was inaugurated by Senator Rubina Rauf, who appreciated the initiative for its role in reviving regional art practices and promoting cultural dialogue through visual storytelling. The Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Frederico Silva, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Australian High Commission Nicole Guihot and Director PNCA Mariam Ahmed also accompanied them.

PNCA Director Mariam Ahmed remarked, "PNCA remains committed to providing platforms that celebrate Pakistan's cultural diversity and empower creative voices across the country. Sindhu Sur is a remarkable example of how tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully."

Through Sindhu Sur, PNCA and Nomad Gallery continue their shared vision of supporting artistic voices, empowering women and indigenous communities, and fostering appreciation for Pakistan's diverse artistic heritage.