ISLAMABAD: A children’s art show was inaugurated on Friday which showcased the effects of climate change, degradation of environment and depletion of resources.
The fifth Arts for Change contest and exhibition was held at the National Art Gallery and was organised by Discovering New Artists (DNA) in partnership with the Pakistan National Council of Arts.
A large number of school children, their parents, teachers and senior artists from the twin cities were attending the event.
The theme of the show was Save the Earth and Water Conservation.
Most of the artworks depicted water crisis, draught, environmental, soil and water pollution by industrial, commercial and other activities.
“Our country is facing severe water shortage and most of the participants have highlighted this issue in their artworks,” said Khadeja Iftikhar, a student of Supernova School.
Over 4,500 school children between the ages of four and 15 from 110 institutions across 12 cities participated in the contest.
The travelling show will be held in Lahore Jan 23-24 and Karachi on Feb 8-9.
The artworks were amazing but should have been displayed in a more organised manner and according to the ages of the artist, said Dr Arjumand Faisal, a noted artist and director of Gallery 6.
TV artist Tauseeq Haider, who was the chief guest on the occasion, appreciated the artworks and said they can serve as an eye opener for policymakers, politicians and legislators.
Talking to Dawn he said the paintings were refreshing, original and inspiring. He said the children have touched on every aspect of environment-related problems, from awareness to policymaking, legislation and plan of action.
He said photographs of the artworks should be displayed in parliament to evoke a debate on environmental issues.