JEDDAH, 15 May 2007 — A weeklong art exhibition showcasing 32 pieces of art by Pakistani artist Hina Shahzad ended on Sunday night on a successful note at the Saudi Art Center in the Al-Hamra district of the city.
“I am encouraged by the show and hope to continue displaying my art in the Kingdom and also in my home country,” Shahzad, whose exhibits received rave reviews from both art connoisseurs and general visitors, told Arab News.
Some of her works are simple to look at but reflect deep emotional feelings that help her depict and produce outstanding pieces utilizing quality color and patterns.
“Her output is so fine and courageous,” said Mona Abdullah Al-Qassabi, president of the Saudi Art Center.
“I would recommend all of her future artworks to be sponsored by the Saudi Fine Arts Center,” Mona said, adding that Shahzad’s work is an inspiration to those entering the realm of fine arts.
“Hina is one of those gifted artists who can capture beauty in such a simple way and present it in modern vision and style,” said Mohammed Haider, president of the House of Artists.
Visitors commended the art on display. Tayyib Al-Jiffry said, “Treatment of her oil paintings on canvas was very good.”
Saeed Mohammad Allawi said, “Paintings of flowers have attracted my attention. Flowers make our life happy and meaningful.”
In a message, Pakistan President Gen. Pervez Musharraf said, “I take cognizance of the feats achieved by Hina Shahzad, a prolific and dedicated artist in the sphere of fine arts and paintings as well as laurels reaped therein for Pakistan in general and art connoisseurs in particular. I convey my appreciation for the multidimensional work done by her in the field of fine arts. Her work speaks volumes about dexterity of the craft as well as the sense of visionary art, dedication and commitment.”
Lahore-born Shahzad did her masters in fine arts from the Punjab University in 1982 and taught art at the Karachi School of Art, Viqarunnisa College of Rawalpindi (both in Pakistan), and at the Manarat International School, Jeddah, for five years until 1993. She has been a member of the Saudi Art Center and the House of Artists.
Shahzad, who excels in sketches and the use of colors, previously displayed her art at group shows in Jeddah between 1994 and 2006. She has also taken part in various group exhibitions in Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi.
