Art exhibition: Medical students show artistic talent

73 works go up on display.

ISLAMABAD:

One would think that doctors would have enough on their plates already. But the Rawalpindi Medical College students proved otherwise, delving into their artistic sides by exhibiting oil on canvas paintings at the Rawalpindi Arts Council on Tuesday.

The 73 art works were categorised into two segments: calligraphy and general paintings. Finesse and technique lacked on some of the works, but one has to keep in mind that they were the efforts of amateur artists with little time on their hands. The air was filled with the excitement of students having their works up on display for the first time, and their families cheered them with proud smiles.

“Even though we are all studying to be medical practitioners, it doesn’t mean that our creative side should be hindered in the process. I paint to relive the stress that comes with studying medicine,” said Amna a medical student, with her white coat resting on her arm. There were ample reminders at the exhibit — students wearing white coats and stethoscopes around their necks — that these were med students and not professional artists.

The calligraphy consisted of mixed mediums, where some chose to be safe and paint Allah with oil on canvas or water colours, while others were a bit more daring by using metal studs on a black board to create an Arabic letters.  One work even used recycled canvas and letters.

In the general category, many opted to paint lush green landscapes, mosques, still life such as flowers in a vase, figures and places.

Renowned artist Zia Zaidi from NCA and Zarar Haider from Fatima Jinnah Women University judged the exhibition. Awaiz Zia bagged the first prize in the calligraphy category, while Sara topped the general paintings category.

Prof. Dr Mussadiq Khan, the chief guest, handed out the prizes and appreciated the effort that the students put in. “Extra curricular activity must be encouraged in all institutions, we don’t seem to have enough of it.”

The exhibit will remain on display till June 7 at the Rawalpindi Arts Council.

Published In The Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2012.