The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), in partnership with Nomad Gallery, has launched a new exhibition titled From Surreal to the Real – A Spiritual Travelogue at the National Art Gallery in Islamabad. Curated by prominent artist and cultural advocate Nageen Hyat, the exhibition offers a contemporary exploration of Pakistan’s celebrated Punjabi folklore epic Saif-ul-Malook, focusing on its deeper mystical and spiritual themes.
The opening ceremony featured His Excellency Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, whose presence underscored the importance of cultural collaboration and artistic dialogue between countries. The collection draws inspiration from Saif-ul-Malook, a traditional tale known for its romance between Prince Saif-ul-Malook and the fairy Badi-ul-Jamal, but this exhibition shifts the spotlight to the epic’s Sufi symbolism and metaphysical dimensions, exploring the soul’s journey from material existence to spiritual enlightenment.
Curator Nageen Hyat explained that the event is more than a display of art; it is a thoughtful reflection on the universal journey of love, transformation, and personal evolution. She described how the exhibition relates not just to individual spiritual quests but also to Pakistan’s collective search for truth, identity, and unity.
On display are works by notable artists Mehmood ul Hassan, Farrukh Shahab, Syed A. Irfan, Naila Hussain, Dr. Samina Zaheer, and Faisal Kuhzad. Through diverse mediums such as painting and mixed media, these artists present personal interpretations on themes such as transcendence, inner awakening, spiritual longing, and the quest for a higher identity.
The exhibition has resonated strongly with visitors, drawing thoughtful connections between the mythic narrative of Saif-ul-Malook and Pakistan’s own progress towards self-awareness and national harmony. It remains open to the public at the National Art Gallery, offering art enthusiasts an opportunity to engage with its spiritual and cultural insights.
