Colour your world: Canvas brings together city’s young artists

Day-long exhibition featuring paintings and calligraphy pieces draws large crowds.

PESHAWAR:

To portray local culture and heritage and Pukhtuns’ desire for peace, a day-long art exhibition titled Canvas was held at the PUTA Hall of University of Peshawar on Wednesday.

Painting and calligraphy pieces made by dozens of young artists were on display at the exhibition. Hundreds of visitors including students and art lovers thronged the venue to appreciate the artists’ work.

“The exhibition offers artists the opportunity to showcase their work to the world and get encouragement from people,” said Muhammad Zahid, an organiser. The event organised, by Youth Development Society, a UoP student body, is dedicated to promoting the city’s young artists, added Zahid.

Paintings displayed at Canvas exhibition held at PUTA Hall. PHOTOS: HIDAYAT KHAN/EXPRESS

A variety of paintings highlighting local history, culture and traditions, important landmarks and peace messages garnered appreciation from visitors.

“The youth is aware of the issues faced by the society and have hope for peace in the country and in the province in future,” said Tooba, a painter whose charcoal and oil paintings were on display. By arranging such exhibitions and providing opportunities to the youth, artists’ talents can be brought to the forefront, she added.

Tooba said the city’s young artists have been demanding support from the government to help polish their skills but the requests have fallen on deaf ears and visual arts remain neglected.

“Artists should be motivated to spread their wings and avail new opportunities,” said Shiraz Rashid, whose paintings were inspired by nature, wildlife and the village life.

Paintings displayed at Canvas exhibition held at PUTA Hall. PHOTOS: HIDAYAT KHAN/EXPRESS

He added exhibitions and concerts should be organised in the province more often as K-P’s people are talented and their work should be shared with the world.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 9^th, 2015.