In a remarkable celebration of Pakistan’s rich artistic and architectural heritage, MANZAR: Art and Architecture from Pakistan 1940s to Today is now captivating audiences in Doha. This groundbreaking exhibition, on view until January 31, 2025, is a collaborative effort led by the Art Mill Museum, Qatar’s upcoming international museum of modern and contemporary art, set to open in 2030 under the guidance of Qatar Museums. Curated by a dynamic trio—Caroline Hancock, Aurélien Lemonier, and Zarmeene Shah—the exhibition unfolds across twelve thematic sections at the National Museum of Qatar, blending indoor gallery spaces with the stunning outdoor courtyard to create a visual feast of art, history, and architecture.
Tracing Pakistan’s Artistic Journey
MANZAR, meaning “scene” or “view” in Urdu, takes visitors on a journey through Pakistan’s artistic evolution, beginning with its birth as an independent nation in 1947. The exhibition weaves together a tapestry of themes, including the complexities of nation-building, the exploration of regional identities, aesthetic experiments, the revival of calligraphy, and the intersection of politics and art in land and water conservation. The curators adopt a loosely chronological approach, allowing visitors to trace Pakistan’s dynamic history and diverse cultural landscape through the lens of its artists and architects.
Thematic Highlights and Artistic Gems
The thematic sections of MANZAR provide a holistic exploration of Pakistan’s art and architecture. Starting with works that reflect the aspirations and anxieties of a newly-formed nation in the 1940s and 1950s, the exhibition dives into how art became a tool for expressing identity, resilience, and experimentation.
One of the standout sections is devoted to calligraphy, where the works of legendary artist Sadequain shine brightly. Known for reimagining traditional Islamic calligraphy with a bold and modernist sensibility, Sadequain’s murals and canvases embody the spiritual and cultural essence of Pakistan. His pieces, such as Eternal Embrace and The Last Supper of Ghalib, invite viewers to contemplate the poetic and philosophical depth of his creations.
Another section, aesthetic experiments, showcases the boundary-pushing works of Zubeida Agha, Pakistan’s first modernist painter. Her abstract compositions, such as Cityscape and Play of Line and Color, are a testament to her pioneering role in introducing modern art to the country. Alongside her are the dreamlike works of Shakir Ali, whose paintings like Doves reflect his fascination with cubism and surrealism.
The theme of regionalism and neo-miniature art features contemporary artists like Shahzia Sikander, whose intricate works reimagine the traditional miniature art form with a global perspective. Her iconic piece, The Scroll, bridges the gap between classical techniques and modern narratives, highlighting her unparalleled contribution to contemporary Pakistani art. Also included are the works of Imran Qureshi, known for transforming miniature painting with bold political and environmental themes, as seen in his haunting Blessings Upon the Land of My Love series.
The section exploring the urban vernacular captures the spirit of Pakistan’s bustling cities and the everyday lives of its people. Here, the vibrant truck art of Haider Ali brings the streets of Karachi and Lahore to life, showcasing a uniquely Pakistani form of artistic expression that has become an emblem of the country’s cultural identity.
The politics of land and water are brought to the forefront in the works of Rashid Rana and Huma Mulji. Rana’s piece Desperately Seeking Paradise juxtaposes traditional imagery with modern technology, offering a provocative commentary on globalization and its impact on cultural landscapes. Mulji’s installation Heavenly Heights critiques urbanization and the precarious balance between development and tradition in Pakistan.
Architecture: The Nation’s Built Legacy
MANZAR also highlights Pakistan’s architectural milestones, exploring how the country’s built environment reflects its social and political evolution. A special focus is given to Habib Fida Ali, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated architects, whose minimalist designs bridge the gap between modernism and traditional aesthetics. His projects, such as the Pakistan Pavilion for Expo 1970, exemplify his ability to blend global trends with local sensibilities.
The contributions of Yasmeen Lari, Pakistan’s first female architect, are also celebrated in the exhibition. Known for her humanitarian approach to design, Lari’s work includes innovative, sustainable solutions like the bamboo structures she developed for flood-affected communities. Her designs reflect a deep commitment to addressing the challenges of climate change and social inequality, making her an inspiration for architects worldwide.
A Palatial Experience in Qatar
The setting of the National Museum of Qatar adds another layer of grandeur to the exhibition. MANZAR seamlessly integrates the museum’s cutting-edge design by Jean Nouvel with the traditional motifs of Pakistani art and architecture. The sprawling outdoor courtyard hosts large-scale installations and performances, creating an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of a conventional art exhibition.
Why MANZAR Matters
MANZAR is more than just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and diversity of Pakistani culture. In an era where Pakistan is often misrepresented on the global stage, the exhibition provides a counter-narrative, highlighting the country’s rich contributions to art and architecture. It also serves as a bridge between Pakistan and Qatar, fostering cultural exchange and mutual appreciation.
The curators—Hancock, Lemonier, and Shah—have successfully crafted a narrative that is as inclusive as it is enlightening. By bringing together historical works, contemporary masterpieces, and architectural innovations, they have created a dialogue between the past and the present, inviting viewers to reflect on Pakistan’s journey and its place in the world today.
Don’t Miss It!
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an admirer of architecture, or simply curious about Pakistan’s cultural heritage, MANZAR is an unmissable experience. The exhibition runs until January 31, 2025, offering plenty of time to explore its twelve thematic sections and immerse yourself in the stories behind the artworks and designs. As Qatar prepares for the grand opening of the Art Mill Museum in 2030, MANZAR is a tantalizing preview of what’s to come—a celebration of creativity, history, and the enduring power of art.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.
