U.S. Embassy Opens First ‘Shahkaar Fankaar’ Alumni Artist Showcase in Islamabad
Islamabad —By Muhammad Saleem The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), and the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network inaugurated the first ‘Shahkaar Fankaar Alumni Artist Showcase’ on October 22 at the newly established gallery in USEFP’s building in Islamabad. The gallery aims to highlight the achievements of alumni of U.S. government…
Islamabad —By Muhammad Saleem The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), and the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network inaugurated the first ‘Shahkaar Fankaar Alumni Artist Showcase’ on October 22 at the newly established gallery in USEFP’s building in Islamabad. The gallery aims to highlight the achievements of alumni of U.S. government exchange programmes in the field of arts.�
The inaugural solo exhibition features works by Lahore-based visual artist Minaa Haroon, an alumna of a U.S. Department of State exchange programme focused on cultural heritage preservation. She has used inherited jewellery and decorative objects in her work as symbols of memory, identity, and family continuity.�
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Heidi Smith, Director of Public Engagement at the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan, said educational and cultural exchange programmes have brought American and Pakistani citizens together as partners in education, innovation, and creativity. She also presented Minaa Haroon with a certificate of recognition for her artistic excellence and achievements.�
USEFP Executive Director Dr. Peter K. Moran said cultural and educational exchange changes everyday routines and broadens perspectives, adding that art is one of the best means of understanding such transformation and the exchange of ideas.�
The ceremony also featured a 3D projection of Minaa Haroon’s artwork on the exterior wall of the USEFP building, presented by Islamabad-based Hola Digital. The exhibition will remain open to the public until November 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.�
Since its establishment in 1950, thousands of Pakistani and American citizens have participated in USEFP’s educational and research exchange programmes.�
