The works of contemporary Pakistani artists should now be just a computer keyboard’s click away. That’s the stated purpose of the Paint Bucket Gallery, the country’s first virtual art gallery.

An idea that is most pertinent to the present times of internet revolution -- though a little late to come to Pakistan -- the Paint Bucket Gallery recently saw its launch in the ‘physical’ world, close to Gaddafi Stadium, with a showcase by seven young artists that have excelled in different genres like painting and printmaking. The owner of the gallery Sehr Latif was all excitement as she spoke to the media on the occasion.

"The gallery seeks to promote upcoming young artists and [display] the stimulating work that they are creating. It provides them with an opportunity to be recognised in the international art community," Sehr said.

Talking about how she began in this field, Sehr said, "I’ve been a collector of artworks and gradually built a notable selection of well-renowned artists. Lately, though, my interest shifted towards younger crop."

"At the Paint Bucket Gallery, we feel the new artists will help to connect with the art lovers anywhere in the world in a big way," curator Anum Lasharie commented.

Sehr was quick to acknowledge that the Pakistani art scene is growing fast and its presence in the international arena is turning heads. She hoped to be able to build a strong reputation and promote online sales.

Back in the physical world, the inaugural show presented works of Fine Arts students who had used mixed media such as oil on canvas, lasani, cloth, pen on paper and printing techniques like mono, collograph and photo transfer. The Gaddafi Stadium location is not the final one, "we shall keep on moving to exciting new spaces before deciding on an ideal spot." No wonder, they call it a ‘moving’ art gallery.

In response to a query, Sehr said, "We began on a small scale so that the venture remains manageable because I want to gain the trust of my clients, artists, viewers and buyers as this is a risky business."

The gallery functions from its website (see above) as well as its Facebook page. Since everything appears on Google web search, it is also an indicator of the fact that Pakistan is not lagging behind in the Fine Arts.

Secondly, it is a great web portal for artists, especially those who have not been to an arts institution and may not have easy and affordable access to an art gallery.

While Sehr looks after the business side, Anum finds the job of the curator close to her heart as she is a practising artist herself.

"The selection of artists [for display in the gallery] is based on a stringent criterion," Anum revealed. "We mean to educate our audience about art and develop their tastes also."

"The response from the audiences has so far been very positive," added Sehr. "This proves that we have successfully earned the trust of our clients and artists. This makes us at the Paint Bucket Gallery truly happy."