Islamic Calligraphy Is an Important Part of Pakistan’s Heritage; Every Artwork Is Unique in Its Own Way: Khalil Bajwa, Consul General of Pakistan
Special Report: Mehboob Ali Shaikh
In a significant effort to introduce Pakistani art, culture, and Islamic calligraphy to the international community, a special two-day exhibition featuring the artwork of Pakistani artist and renowned Islamic calligrapher Ayesha Kamal was organized in Toronto.
The exhibition, held at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Toronto, was formally inaugurated by Pakistan’s Consul General Khalil Bajwa, Deputy Consul General Muhammad Hassan, Deputy Consul Sundas Ali Khan, Counsellor Mehboob Sultan, and Trade Counsellor Altamash Janjua, alongside artist Ayesha Kamal. Distinguished members of the Pakistani community were also present on the occasion.
During the opening ceremony, diplomatic officials and guests viewed Ayesha Kamal’s artwork and appreciated her artistic talent, creative abilities, and distinctive approach to Islamic calligraphy.
Speaking about her artwork and international artistic journey, Pakistani artist Ayesha Kamal said that she is the first Pakistani female artist whose exhibition is being held at an American museum and university.
She stated that women in Pakistan have ample opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and excel in every field. She expressed her desire to showcase Pakistan’s bright and positive image to the world through her artwork and international exhibitions.
Ayesha Kamal said that art and painting are effective mediums for introducing a country’s civilization, culture, and identity to the international community. She added that she feels proud to represent Pakistan through her artistic work.
Addressing the ceremony, Consul General of Pakistan Khalil Bajwa said that Islamic calligraphy is an important part of Pakistan’s cultural and civilizational heritage. He described Ayesha Kamal’s artwork as exceptionally beautiful and distinctive, emphasizing that every piece is unique in its own way.
He said Pakistani artists are highlighting the country’s culture and positive image internationally through their creative talents. The exhibition of Ayesha Kamal’s artwork in Toronto is an important step in this direction.
Consul General Khalil Bajwa further announced that following Toronto, exhibitions of Ayesha Kamal’s artwork are also being planned in Ottawa and Montreal. These exhibitions will provide opportunities to introduce Pakistani art and Islamic calligraphy to audiences in different Canadian cities.
Ayesha Kamal’s artistic journey and achievements have also received significant recognition in international media. On September 20, 2022, BBC Urdu published a special report highlighting her artistic journey, titled: “Ayesha Kamal’s Journey from Earning Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 5 Million for a Single Painting.”
The report highlighted her early struggles, dedication to painting, and journey towards establishing a distinctive identity through Islamic calligraphy.
Through hard work, continuous dedication, and creative talent, Ayesha Kamal has made her mark in the international art world, rising from Pakistan to gain recognition on the global stage. Her artwork has been showcased at various international exhibitions in Belarus, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
One of the most distinctive features of Ayesha Kamal’s paintings is her ability to present traditional Islamic calligraphy through modern artistic techniques, unique colour combinations, and creative expressions. Her artwork beautifully reflects Quranic verses, Arabic letters, spirituality, and the richness of Islamic civilization.
She says that, for her, painting is not merely a combination of colours and canvas; rather, it is a medium through which she expresses her emotions, spirituality, and Islamic culture to the world through the language of art.
The two-day exhibition organized by the Consulate General of Pakistan in Toronto can be regarded as an important initiative to highlight Pakistan’s artistic talent, cultural heritage, and creative capabilities among Canadian society and the Pakistani community.
The announcement of upcoming exhibitions in Ottawa and Montreal following the Toronto exhibition reflects practical efforts to bring Pakistani art and culture to different cities across Canada.
Ayesha Kamal’s remarkable initiative not only highlights the creative abilities and achievements of Pakistani women but can also play an important role in promoting Pakistan’s positive image, Islamic arts, and rich cultural heritage at the international level.
