Exhibition “MOKU-HANGA, prints from Pakistan” inaugurated at the National Art Gallery

Celina Ali

Islamabad: WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, on Tuesday inaugurated the exhibition “MOKU-HANGA, prints from Pakistan” at the National Art Gallery, Islamabad showcasing a unique fusion of traditional Japanese woodblock printing “MOKU-HANGA” techniques with the Pakistani artistic sensibilities.

The exhibition, which runs until October 15, has been organized by the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association Islamabad (PJCA) in collaboration with Khad’o Khaal Gallery, COMSATS University, National Testing Service-Pakistan (NTS), Embassy of Japan in Islamabad and the Pakistan National Council of the Arts.

While speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Ambassador WADA said that MOKU-HANGA, a traditional Japanese woodblock printing technique, has been a cornerstone of Japanese art for centuries. “This exhibition not only showcases the beauty and elegance of MOKU-HANGA but also serves as a bridge between our cultures, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation”, said the Ambassador.

Mr. Jamal Shah, President PJCA said in his welcome address noted that Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association Islamabad (PJCA) is delighted to present the exhibition “MOKU-HANGA, prints from Pakistan, for the art lovers. This exhibition has been beautifully showcased in collaboration with Pakistani artists that reflects the diversity and richness of our shared culture, he added.

Prof. Dr. Shahida Mansoor, the curator of the exhibition, expressing her views said that this pioneering project brings together Pakistani artists and Japanese experts to explore the centuries-old MOKU-HANGA printmaking technique, characterized by its use of water-based inks and delicate, subtle results. She said MOKU-HANGA is created on hand made paper and the warm glow of these prints is due to water based eco-friendly paints and organic materials and humble tools made from natural materials.

The Ambassador and President PJCA gave away the commendation certificate to Prof. Dr. Shahida Mansoor, the Curator of the Exhibition, appreciation certificate to the participating artists. The exhibition will travel to Peshawar after Islamabad.