Rawalpindi, The Deputy Commissioner Complex in Chakwal was the venue for the First Punjab Painting Competition, an event that brought to light the rich artistic talent of the region. Deputy Commissioner Chakwal, Ms. Qurat Ul Ain Malik, presided over the prize distribution ceremony as the chief guest, with notable figures such as Additional Deputy Commissioner (R) Bilal Bin Abdul Hafeez and Deputy Director of the Arts Council Muhammad Shakoor also in attendance. The competition highlighted the depth of Pakistan’s fine arts scene, emphasizing its roots in Islamic and geographical influences.
According to Punjab Arts Council, Ms. Malik addressed the participants and attendees, underscoring the long history of fine arts in Pakistan, including painting, sculpture, music, poetry, and dance. She expressed optimism that the competition would shine a spotlight on Chakwal’s youthful artists, demonstrating the area’s significant artistic talent and interest. The recent establishment of an Arts Council in Chakwal, currently operating temporarily within the district complex, was also mentioned. The government’s ongoing efforts to allocate land for a permanent Arts Council were highlighted, with anticipation for Chakwal to carve out a distinctive identity in art and culture in the years ahead.
Deputy Director Muhammad Shakoor commended the painters for their depiction of natural scenes, noting the uniqueness and emotional depth of each painting. He reflected on the significant role of painting in human civilization, capable of preserving thousands of years of human and natural history. The competition saw participation from dozens of artists across the district, showcasing a wide array of talent and creativity through their art.
The winners of the competition were announced, with Abdul Hadi securing the first prize, Mehwish Tariq the second, and Jawaria Noor the third. Each was recognized for their outstanding contributions to the competition. The ceremony concluded with Ms. Malik distributing cheques and certificates of appreciation to the winners, celebrating their achievements and the overall success of the event.
The First Punjab Painting Competition in Chakwal marks an important milestone in promoting local art and artists, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape within the region. It underscores the commitment of local and provincial authorities to nurture and showcase the rich artistic heritage and contemporary talent of Pakistan.