Japan in Art: 40 artworks weave a tale of cultural friendship

ISLAMABAD: “It reflects the cultural link between our two countries,” said Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi.

He was speaking at the inauguration of “Japan in Art,” an exhibition featuring around 40 artworks by young Pakistani artists. The event took place at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA).

The Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan inaugurated the showcase alongside Director General PNCA Ayoub Jamali and President PJCA Islamabad Jamal Shah.

Artists, students, and visitors from various sectors attended the ceremony.

The exhibition was organized by the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan. It was held in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts and the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Islamabad at the National Art Gallery.

“Such activities support relations between people of both countries,” the Ambassador added.

He explained that these efforts add to ongoing cooperation beyond official channels.

A total of 40 artworks created by emerging Pakistani artists were on display.

Each piece presented different aspects of Japanese social and cultural life.

The artists employed a range of techniques, including brush painting, colored pencils, and woodblock printing.

“The artworks reflected how Pakistani artists viewed Japanese traditions,” organizers noted.

They added that the creators used their own unique approaches to interpret daily life in Japan.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu presented the Ambassador’s Commendation for 2026 to Mr. Jamal Shah.

The award recognized his role in promoting cultural ties between Japan and Pakistan.

Addressing the audience, the Ambassador spoke of Mr. Shah’s contributions across various roles.

He recalled his work during Expo 2005 Aichi in Japan, where he served as Director of the Pakistan Pavilion.

He also noted Mr. Shah’s support for cultural events held in collaboration with the Embassy during his tenure as Minister for Culture.

The Ambassador further highlighted Shah’s recent exhibition titled “Remains of Ruins.”

That body of work focused on the impact of nuclear events in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

“Such efforts help create awareness through art,” the Ambassador remarked.

He expressed hope that Mr. Shah would continue his work to strengthen cultural relations and promote Japanese culture in Pakistan.

Officials said the exhibition provided a valuable opportunity for visitors to engage with artworks that connect two cultures.

They added that these events help young artists present their work and learn from international themes.

The exhibition will remain open for visitors at the National Art Gallery, PNCA, for a limited period. (Sajid Ali Zaidi)