As we bid farewell to 2024, we reflect on a year that has elevated Pakistan’s art scene to new heights, both nationally and internationally. The
As we bid farewell to 2024, we reflect on a year that has elevated Pakistan’s art scene to new heights, both nationally and internationally. The Karachi Biennale and Lahore Biennale, which concluded with remarkable success, have left a lasting legacy in the country’s cultural narrative. My heartfelt congratulations to Niilofur Farrukh, CEO and Trustee of the Karachi Biennale, for her visionary leadership and to Qudsia Rahim, Director of the Lahore Biennale, for delivering an unforgettable artistic experience. These events are more than just exhibitions; they have sparked conversations and fostered connections between art and the public, offering a much-needed cultural respite in challenging times.
On the global stage, Adeela Suleman’s groundbreaking exhibition, Exit the Tiger, Symbols of Valour in Tipu’s India, in collaboration with Canvas and Grosvenor Gallery, was a highlight, drawing international acclaim. The significance of her exploration into Tipu Sultan’s legacy resonated far beyond borders. Meanwhile, Zarmeene Shah’s curatorial brilliance shone through in Manzar: Art and Architecture from Pakistan, a monumental exhibition at the National Museum of Qatar, featuring over 200 works that fostered cross-cultural dialogue.
Internationally, the year witnessed another successful Art Basel and Frieze London, and the 60th Venice Biennale, masterfully curated by Adriano Pedrosa, proved once again why it remains the pinnacle of the global art calendar.
Closer to home, Karachi’s galleries remained vibrant hubs of creativity. Canvas Gallery showcased exceptional exhibitions, including New Works by Muhammad Ali Talpur, Hamra Abbas’s solo exhibition and Chait Virsanda by Risham Syed. Sanat Initiative concluded the year with Mariam Ali Agha’s profound show curated by Scherezade Junejo. At Chawkandi Art Gallery, Razin Rubin’s Fading Echoes and Nusra Latof Qureshi’s Dreams Woven into Water stood out.
Meanwhile, VM Art Gallery continued its dual role as an exhibition space and an educational platform, fostering youth engagement through shows like Figures of Expressions and Shades of the Familiar. Koel Gallery maintained its momentum with standout shows, including Metal Elemental Resonance, curated by Nurayah Sheikh Nabi, and Red, curated by FS Karachiwala.
As we close the chapter on 2024, let’s embrace the new year with open arms, ready for more transformative art experiences. May 2025 bring continued creativity, dialogue, and inspiration. In the words of the great Pablo Picasso, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” Here’s to a vibrant year ahead!
Happy New Year & Bye for NOW !
