Pakistani photographer showcases South Korea

Islamabad

For its photography programme, the Asian Study Group (ASG) organised a multimedia presentation featuring South Korea where the 33rd International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) Congress was held, hosted by the Photo Artists Society of Korea.

The congress was held in Seoul and Gyeongju and attended by a five-member delegation from Pakistan, according to whom it was ‘very well organised.’ The event was attended by ASG members and the Cultural Counsellor of the South Korean embassy, In Kook Kim.

Welcoming the gathering Dr Shaukat Malik, who was part of the delegation, introduced leader of the group, President of the Photographic Society of Pakistan and Country Representative of PSA and FIAP, Javaid Qazi whose photographs were showcased at the event.

“Modern Korea is one of the most developed and hi tech nations, yet it values its ancient history and traditions. The economic growth and rapid development of Korea have been phenomenal,” said, Javaid Kazi “What amazed us was the modernism and progress found alongside age old traditions. Hospitality and friendliness of the people are the hallmarks of South Korea. We were warmly welcomed wherever we went. A rich variety of music and dances amply provided glimpses of Korean history, culture and customs and a carefully blended programme giving insight into the scenery, history and culture of Korea provided a variety of subjects for the three hundred plus photographers from more than fifty countries.”

A slide show of the photographs taken during the congress and sightseeing trips followed, showing the diverse sights and sounds of South Korea’s cultural heritage, with an explanatory commentary. This gave viewers a chance to see the lifestyle and landscape in detail and will surely tempt them to visit the country!

In conclusion Mr Kim said a few words in appreciation of the programme, saying it was just a glimpse that gave a good overall picture and there was a lot more to see in his country, while president ASG, Parvin Malik thanked everyone, especially the photography sub group members involved in organizing the interesting event.  

Javaid Kazi, MFIAP, ESFIAP, FRPS, FPSA, was awarded the Master FIAP award in 2000 becoming the first ever Pakistani photographer to receive this honour. He has been conferred the President of Pakistan’s Medal for ‘Pride of Performance’ in the field of Culture (photography). His work has been exhibited all over the world and extensively published. His coffee table books include ‘Churches of Pakistan;’ ‘Sikh Heritage of Pakistan;’ ‘Hindu Heritage of Pakistan;’ ‘Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan’ and ‘Journey through Pakistan.’