Special Correspondent
Abu Dhabi: Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), attended the opening of Pakistani artist Shahzad Hassan Ghazi’s exhibition titled “Grace Versus Strength” at the Leila Heller Gallery, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Tirmizi expressed delight over the recognition of a Pakistani artist at the Gulf’s largest art gallery. He said:
- “I am immensely delighted that the work of a Pakistani artist is being showcased in the largest art gallery of the Gulf region. I firmly believe that art, culture, music, and cuisine define our identity as a nation.”
Recalling Pakistan’s rich artistic heritage, the Ambassador mentioned the contributions of Sadequain, Ustad Allah Bux, Abdur Rahman Chughtai, Zubeida Agha, and Shakir Ali, while praising Shahzad Hassan Ghazi’s unique blend of Mughal influences with contemporary art. “I am proud to see his creative work displayed alongside leading international artists from Iran, the United States, and beyond,” he noted.
Artist Shahzad Hassan Ghazi thanked the Ambassador for his presence, saying:
- “I am deeply honored. I will continue to draw inspiration from legendary Pakistani artists and strive to project a soft and positive image of our country through art.”
The exhibition attracted strong interest from Emiratis, expatriates, diplomats, art enthusiasts, and members of the Pakistani community in the UAE.