Gandhara Art showcased at RAC

RAWALPINDI: Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) organized an exhibition on Gandhara Art by renowned artist of international fame Shafeeq Ahmed here on Tuesday.

Toshikazu Isomura, Counselor Japan Embassy inaugurated the exhibition. Shafeeq Ahmed, 53 years old, served this inherited art more than 35 years. He has hold more than 15 exhibitions all over Pakistan and one exhibition in Sri Lanka. He has achieved admiration by many awards to his credit.

He works on precious stones, China clay, Plaster of Paris and bronze his unique style. Shafeeq Ahmed is determined for the revival of Gandhara Art which is vanishing with passage of time.More than 50 art pieces were put on display.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Toshikazu Isomura, Counselor Japan Embassy said that in the early centuries of Christian era, there flowered in North-western region of Pakistan, remarkable and unique Buddhist civilization in all its glory and splendor. It is now known the world over as "Gandhara Civilization". originally, however, the name stood for a country, ancient kingdom located in this part of Pakistan, he further said.

He further added that he is obliged of Rawalpindi Arts Council for organizing unique exhibition. Toshikazu Isomura was of the view that Shafeeq Ahmed is the predecessor of old civilization and this art differs him from others. He also thanked the administration of Rawalpindi Arts Council for holding the exhibition.