Karachi's 'Feminist Charisma VI' celebrates women's voices

KARACHI

A three-day art exhibition titled Feminist Charisma VI is underway in Karachi, bringing together more than 60 women artists who are using their work to highlight themes of identity, empowerment and social realities.

Curated by Samina Mumtaz, the exhibition marks the sixth edition of the series and features a diverse mix of senior and emerging artists. Participating artists include Afsheen Waqas, Aniqa Fatima, Annal Haque, Arusha Javaid, Asma Baig, Azra Wahab, Fasiha Farooq, Fauzia Khan, Hajra Mansoor, Hafsa Sheikh, Laiba Maqsood, Naureen Usmani, Nida Fatima, Noshina Rind, Rahab Naqvi, Razia Sehar, Sadia Arif, Sahar Atta, Saher Shah Rizvi, Saima Aamir, Samina Mumtaz, Shaima Umer, Shaista Momin, Sidra Sattar, Sohaina Elia, Sumbel Sajid, Syeda Nadia Raza, Sabeen Rashid and Zainab Taj.

Speaking about the exhibition, curator Samina Mumtaz said:"This is Feminist Charisma VI, a tribute to Women's Day, and we always celebrate it in a positive way. This year as well, the exhibition is very creative and beautiful. We have displayed watercolour, acrylic, sculpture and many other mediums, and the work is truly amazing.

I would like to thank the gallery for always supporting artists and providing a positive platform. I am very happy today and grateful to all my friends and artists who continue to support and make this exhibition a success.

Some artists from Islamabad and Lahore could not join this time due to the global situation, but they are very much part of this journey. We have both emerging artists and those associated with the Arts Council everyone's work is outstanding, and I encourage people to come and experience it."

President Arts Council, Ahmed Shah, also appreciated the initiative while speaking to The Express Tribune:

"This exhibition reflects Samina Mumtaz's vision she is a strong feminist voice, and this is the sixth exhibition in the series. The presence of senior painters along with emerging artists makes it even more valuable.

All the artists have produced remarkable work, and I congratulate them. I have seen new ideas here, and I believe collectors will take keen interest. Galleries like this play an important role in promoting both established and new talent.

Art has global importance it reflects every aspect of society. Whatever is happening in the world can be seen in art through different colours and expressions."

Artist Fauzia Khan highlighted the importance of such platforms:

"This exhibition is very important for women, especially emerging artists. When juniors exhibit alongside senior artists, they get a chance to learn and grow, and their work also gains value.

My own work is deeply connected to nature and my roots - I have been exploring this theme for the past 20 to 25 years. In my paintings, you will see trees, their strength, and the passage of time seasons, changes, and hidden elements of nature.

Nature has many layers that are not visible at first glance, and that is what I try to express. My work also carries a message through colours, I talk about love, energy and peace. At the same time, I highlight the importance of preserving nature, and my upcoming work will focus on mangroves to create awareness."

The exhibition, running from March 26 to 28, continues to draw art lovers, students and collectors, offering a vibrant platform where women artists not only showcase their creativity but also challenge narratives and reflect society through powerful visual storytelling.