Pakistan’s Art Exhibition in Dubai Concludes with Emphasis on Cultural Diplomacy
Pakistan’s week-long contemporary art exhibition, *Vanishing Points, concluded in Dubai over the weekend, drawing praise for its role in promoting cultural diplomacy and reshaping international perceptions of Pakistan through the lens of art.
Hosted from April 13 to 20 at Concrete, a leading contemporary art venue in Alserkal Avenue, the exhibition was part of Alserkal Art Week and featured the works of acclaimed Pakistani artist *Imran Qureshi. The show was curated by **Nada Raza, Director of the Alserkal Arts Foundation.
Ambassador Tirmizi Highlights Art as Soft Power
During a visit to the exhibition on its closing day, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, underscored the significance of art as a vehicle for cultural engagement.
“*Imran Qureshi’s art vividly transforms Pakistan’s day-to-day life into breathtaking visual narratives,” said Tirmizi. “Through his lens, the bustling streets, Sufi shrines and architectural heritage come alive, arising a deep sense of connection.”
He praised a particular installation depicting a Sufi tomb accompanied by Qawwali music, calling it “mesmerizing and emotionally powerful.”
The ambassador emphasized the potential of art to bridge cultural divides and promote cross-cultural understanding. He also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to future cultural collaborations in the UAE, particularly with platforms like Alserkal Avenue.
Exhibition Showcased Urban Life and South Asian Aesthetics
Qureshi’s Vanishing Points presented a powerful reflection on the visual and emotional landscapes of urban South Asia, combining photography, video, painting, and a site-specific installation. Known for revitalizing Indo-Persian miniature painting with contemporary themes, Qureshi’s work blends tradition with modern artistic expression.
A Global Artistic Presence
Imran Qureshi holds several international accolades, including Pakistan’s Sitara-i-Imtiaz and France’s Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, in recognition of his global artistic contributions. His work is part of major museum collections such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
In addition to Vanishing Points, Qureshi is also featured in this year’s Art Dubai, alongside 10 Pakistani artists, further highlighting Pakistan’s growing presence in the global contemporary art scene.
