RAWALPINDI: A two-day group calligraphy exhibition titled Takhlique kicked off on Tuesday at Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) to showcase the work of university students.

The exhibition was inaugurated by RAC Director Waqar Ahmed and senior calligraphers including Moyyad Fazil, Abdul Rehman Tabani and Mohammad Azeem Iqbal were also present.

Soudah Sultana, Zainab Sarfraz, Amna Arshad, Huma Humayon, Khaula Gul, Javeria Zaib, Hafsa and Wajiha Raja participated in the exhibition and presented their work.

More than 50 pieces were displayed that the artists had made in their own styles using different mediums; styles of writing including khat-e-kofi, nastalique, jalli and others were used. It was evident through the works that students had explored several themes whilst utilising unique perspectives especially how verses of the Quran played a major role in giving birth to calligraphy.

The use of bright colours in a splendid manner gave the exhibition an overall lively disposition and showed the artists’ dedication towards their craft. The exhibition was one of the largest collection of works by students.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Mr Ahmed said that calligraphy is the legacy of Muslims and the interest of younger generation in this art especially women is commendable. He said quality of the exhibited pieces was excellent and so was their presentation, adding, students had produced “striking” work.

Aim of the exhibition was to encourage new talent and provide them a platform, he said, adding the students had proved that the younger generation has the capacity to express themselves diversely in areas of fine art.

Appreciated RAC’s role towards promoting arts and culture, he said artists are assets of the country and their works in any genre are of immense importance.

Published in Dawn, October 14th, 2020