Lahore, The Lahore School of Economics successfully held its First Annual Conference on Media Studies, Art, and Design on May 2nd and 3rd, 2024, themed “Narratives of Places: Multidisciplinary Perspectives and Presentations.” The event was inaugurated by Dr. Shahid Amjad Chaudhry, the Rector of the Lahore School of Economics, who highlighted the critical role of individual expression in the arts.

According to Lahore School of Economics, the conference featured a lineup of prominent speakers, including keynote speaker Salima Hashmi, who reflected on her experiences and the influence of colonial architecture in Pakistan. The event gathered senior academics, researchers, and practitioners from various institutions such as the National College of Arts, COMSATS, and the University of Sindh, who presented their latest research.

The first day of the conference focused on the utilization of public spaces for artistic expression and the historical narratives of colonial cities, while the second day delved into cinema, fashion, and calligraphy, sparking discussions on diverse film industries, including those of India, Pakistan, and Iran.

Rabia Nadir, Head of the Department of Media Studies, Art and Design at the Lahore School of Economics, concluded the conference, emphasizing the ongoing creation and reclamation of public spaces by artists and researchers. She expressed gratitude towards all contributors and shared her enthusiasm for future conferences.

Highlighting the event was an art exhibition curated by Professor Ali Raza, featuring works from 16 artists across the country. This exhibition offered attendees a chance to engage directly with the artists and their works, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse artistic landscape in Pakistan.

The conference not only served as a platform for scholarly exchange and showcasing artistic works but also facilitated networking opportunities, laying the groundwork for future collaborations within the fields of media studies, art, and design.