Karachi-based artist’s murals displayed at US embassy

Islamabad

American Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale inaugurated two new murals by famed Karachi-based artist Shazly Khan at the American Embassy here on Friday. Khan’s vibrant paintings promote the empowerment of women and their role in fostering strong communities.

“The art we unveil today reflects the shared Pakistani and American principles of free expression, community, and equality,” Ambassador Hale said. “During the Holy Month of Ramazan, we honour the principles of tolerance and respect which unite people of all religious faiths. Given this, it’s all the more fitting that we celebrate these universal values through Shazly’s artwork here today.”

The art is intended to evoke a sense of celebration, hope, and unity, according to the artist. “We celebrate life by standing together in solidarity, peace, and love making our dreams come true,” Shazly Khan said about her art.

In 2015, the Embassy held a competition for Pakistani artists to design murals for the visitors’ area of its consular section. Of the dozens of entries, the Embassy selected Khan’s submissions. Tom Rogan, Consul General at the US Embassy in Islamabad, said, “The new installation highlights the shared cooperation between Pakistanis and Americans. We are very gratified by Shazly’s contribution of these beautiful and uplifting works of art, which will be viewed by hundreds of Pakistanis and Americans each day as they pass through the Consular Section,” Consul General Rogan said.

More than 80,000 people will see Khan’s paintings each year as they come for consular services at the embassy.