Ahmed Shah highlights importance of free art education for poor students

The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi’s Arts Council Institute of Arts and Crafts organized a final-year thesis show at the Ahmed Parvez Art Gallery and Haseena Moin Hall, said a statement on Monday.

The event was inaugurated by renowned intellectual and humorist Anwar Maqsood, along with Sindh Caretaker Minister for Information, Minority Affairs, Social Protection, and President Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah. Secretary Arts Council Ejaz Farooqui, member of Governing Body Chand Gul, Farrukh Shahab, school principals, and teachers are also present at the event.

The thesis display showcased the creative works of students. The artworks won praise from Anwar Maqsood, who expressed happiness at witnessing exceptional work after a considerable period.

He commended the efforts of middle-class children, highlighting their dedication and hard work. Anwar Maqsood extended congratulations to the teachers, including Ahmed Shah, and all the students, stating that the success of the graduating students was a testament to the institution's achievements.

Ahmed Shah shared the struggles faced in acquiring and preserving the institution. He mentioned the dire conditions of the school when it was first acquired, saying it lacked basic amenities. He credited the teachers and expressed gratitude to Anwar Maqsood, referring to him as a mentor and elder. He acknowledged the media's support for the Arts Council and highlighted the success of the institution's graduates who have entered the professional arena.

Thirty-one students of the institute participated in the thesis show, including 19 fine arts, eight graphic designing and four textile design students and communication design.

Among the students participating in the final-year thesis show were Zarnab Baloch, Muhammad Jawad Hassan, Akash Jivraj, Zeenat Khan, Fatima Khan, Kabeer Atta Muhammad, Ashiq Ali, Habiba Mujeeb, Naheed Noor, Kiran Aslam, Yasir Noor, Darab Munir, Shahzad Baloch, Stifan, Wasama Nasir, Sahar Afsha, Bakhtiar Ahmed, Azka Latif, Lewis Saber, Syed Noor Hussain Rizvi, Basma Abid, Zainab Abdul Rasheed, Shiza Shawkat, Nazif Shaikh, Sachin Ramji, Khawaja Mubasher, Asad Ali, Saira Iqbal, Zeenat Soomro, Fiza.

Ahmed Shah announced the initiation of master's classes and stressed the importance of providing free education to students who lacked the financial means for expensive art education.

The thesis display, which includes pieces from hearing and speech-impaired students, is set to continue until January 10, 2024, showcasing the talent and diversity of the students' artistic endeavours.