Painting exhibition opens

Rawalpindi: A painting exhibition titled ‘Landscapes of Pakistan’ by pride of performance artist Ghulam Mustafa kicked off under auspices of Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) on Monday.

Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Takashi Kurai inaugurated the exhibition flanked by Naheed Manzoor and RAC Director Waqar Ahmed. The show was titled ‘Landscapes of Pakistan.’ Ghulam Mustafa’s prime love has been landscape painting. Carving his identity in the genre, he belongs to the distinguished group of landscape painters that flourished in Lahore.

Ghulam Mustafa, ex-executive director of Punjab Arts Council is acknowledged for his spontaneity and expertise in lifting whatever arrests his attention. His work of the old Lahore city vividly capture shifting light and shadows, the textures and patina left on alley walls by the passage of time and the hubbub of streets and the ding of everyday life.

Ghulam Mustafa having 40 years experience in the field of art & culture is a world renowned artist who has done several exhibitions worldwide including USA, China, Japan, UK, Dubai, Kuwait and India etc. He is known as master of Landscape and achieved President’s Pride of Performance in 2002.

Addressing at the inaugural ceremony, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Takashi Kurai said that it was honour to inaugurate today's exhibition titled “Landscape of Pakistan” by a senior artist of Pakistan Mr. Ghulam Mustafa.

For achieving excellence in his artistic endeavours, Ghulam Mustafa's work was recognized at all levels as he was conferred President’s Award for Pride of Performance which speaks the quality of his creativity, he said.

He added that today's exhibition is titled as Landscape of Pakistan but every one of you must have noticed some eye catching landscapes of Japan as well. As you may be aware that the government of Japan had invited Mr. Mustafa on Japan visit in 2009 and by availing that opportunity he had closely observed the nature and landscapes of Japan. And that observation was reflected here today in this exhibition too.

“I was told that Mr. Mustafa has done more than 21 solo and group exhibitions in Pakistan as well as abroad including Japan. I must appreciate the creative genius of the artist which has very soothing effects for the viewers.

I was also informed that his works are displayed in many prominent places such as Prime Minister’s office in Islamabad and Chief Minster’s office in Lahore”, the ambassador further said.

Naheed Manzoor said that Ghulam Mustafa served forty years in Punjab Council of the Arts and achieved distinct position. She said that the artists presented master pieces in the exhibition. RAC Director Waqar Ahmed thanked the distinguished guests and said that Ghulam Mustafa is the precious asset and brightened the image of the country.