ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan National Council of the Arts on Thursday inaugurated “Mirror to the Soul”, a captivating portrait exhibition featuring attractive works of Chinese artist Professor Zhao Yingming.

The exhibition, a collaborative initiative between PNCA and ForArtSake, will remain open for the public until March 25.

Mohamed Yahya, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan, inaugurated the exhibition along with M. Ayoub Jamali, DG, PNCA.

Curated by Amna I Pataudi and Rahat Naveed Masood, the exhibition showcased Professor Zhao’s amazing artistic talent through a collection of 60 sketches and paintings created in just two months. Professor Zhao, currently pursuing his PhD in Intangible Culture at the National University of Education Pakistan comes from a family with an impressive 700-year legacy of artistic excellence.

Mohamed Yahya’s remarks beautifully captured the essence of the exhibition “Mirror to the Soul”.

Congratulating the artist, curators Amna Pataudi, Rahat Naveed Masud and the PNCA, Mohamed Yahya acknowledged the power of art in strengthening the bond between Pakistan and China.

The exhibition was a testament to PNCA’s mission to promote artistic activity and foster cross-cultural understanding. PNCA had been instrumental in showcasing local and international talent. This was a collaborative initiative between PNCA and ForArtSake.

Mohamed Yahya’s gratitude to the artist for creating his portrait in a remarkably short time highlights the artist’s exceptional skill and dedication. The exhibition’s success was also a tribute to PNCA’s efforts in providing a platform for artists to share their work with a wider audience.

Mohamed Yahya noted that PNCA was indeed an amazing place for the people of Islamabad, offering a space for artistic expression, cultural exchange, and community engagement. The exhibition was a shining example of this, and its success will undoubtedly inspire future collaborations between Pakistani and Chinese artists, he said.

The exhibition displayed works from Professor Zhao’s ongoing project, including pieces from its first phase and previews of upcoming work planned for Nepal, Pakistan and China.

Visitors will be able to view portraits of Pakistani artists among other subjects. What distinguished Professor Zhao’s work was his ability to capture not merely the physical likeness of his subjects but the essence of their souls. His masterful technique demonstrated how a few deft strokes, subtle shading and delicate colour palettes could powerfully evoke the spirit of the subject.

Organisers said Mirror to the Soul was a must-visit exhibition for artists, art enthusiasts and students seeking inspiration from Professor Zhao’s unique artistic vision and technical prowess.

Published in Dawn, March 21st, 2025