Written by: Nayha Jehangir Khan
Posted on: July 27, 2022 | 
| 中文
A frontside view of the Shakir Ali Museum and Painting of Shakir Ali by Saeed Akhtar
Shakir Ali Museum offers visitors the chance to retrace the footsteps, memories, accomplishments, events and personal life of the legendary artist through his former residential home. Located in the neighbourhood of Tipu Block, Garden Town, the museum has been an integral part of the Pakistan National Council Association since 1975. We have been informed by the experts of the museum that the land was acquired by the artist in 1964, only to be interrupted by the 1965 war, putting a break on any plans of construction. Shakir Ali waited till the war was over to begin building his home. He spent years in service to the art community as the Principal of the National College of Arts (NCA), Lahore. Fostering relationships with his students and foreign dignitaries visiting Pakistan. Under his administration and mentorship, students at the NCA blossomed and flourished, becoming the pioneering artists at the forefront of Pakistan’s contemporary art.
Main staircase leading to the roof of the Shakir Ali Museum
The facade of the museum is unforgettable, as the corrugated bricks immediately capture your attention. Acquired by Dr. Khalid Saeed Butt from the PNCA in 1975, the museum has continued to contribute to the art scene of Lahore by offering emerging talents a platform to showcase their art. The museum is fully equipped with multiple gallery spaces, a permanent collection of the artist's paintings, a large library of art & literature books, a rooftop terrace and a beautiful back garden to host art happenings. The museum has provided generations of young artists a community, support, representation and opportunities through PNCA organised programs. The pandemic has lowered the attendance of the museum, but with the hopeful return of social gatherings, events and concerts, the museum is ready to welcome larger groups looking to tour the premises.
Shakir Ali's bedroom and studio
Nayyar Ali Dada was the architect of his residence, who considered Shakir Ali a close friend. They spent 10 years completing the home, and the design was unique for its time. The layout was instantly modern with open spaces, split levels, high ceilings, wide corridors, lobbies, landing and a chic mezzanine. Each corner of the home served a purpose, a sense of contagious inspiration seamlessly flowing, amplifying the desire for creation. The large windows flood the space with natural light, for a moment you feel transported to Shakir Ali’s studio imagining him working at his drafting table still sitting in the corner of the gallery. The museum curates a collection of objects, books and personal belongings of the artist that include his National Awards, medals, letters of correspondence, official documents, and archival photographs.
Bull Painting by Shakir Ali
In his personal belongings, we experience the artist's sense of individuality as his clothing, furniture, diaries, spectacles, ties, bedding and handicraft textiles are all preserved. We begin to understand the psychology and spirituality of the artist through these carefully displayed collections. There are two portraits of Shakir Ali hanging in the main lobby of the museum, there is a large black and white portrait by Saeed Akhtar, made on his first death anniversary. It is followed by a portrait tribute by Jamil Naqsh in his signature style. There is a feeling of adoration and love that emanates from these portraits, and of students presenting their last respects to their mentor and friend. Notable students also include Mehmood Hassan Rumi, who is mentioned in the museum display. Students of Shakir Ali became pioneers and art veterans of the Pakistani contemporary art movements, art educators and leaders of their community.
Ink Print Residency at Shakir Ali Museum
In recent years the Shakir Ali Museum has become a home to art exhibitions, theatre and dance performances along with art teaching workshops. The Ajoka Institute presented four new dramatic writings in February 2022, providing a platform for budding writers of the program. Multidisciplinary art forms are the primary foundation for the museum, regularly collaborating with various cultural spaces and collectives. The 3rd Printmaking Residency by Inkster Print Studio was hosted at Shakir Ali Museum, showcasing such artists as Farazeh Syed, Haider Alim, Jawaria Nawaz, Zahrah Ehsan and Saad Ahmed. Comedy Fest PK VII took place at the museum in March 2022. A month-long dance workshop was organised for students under the tutelage of Vicky Samrat. The following month also showcased a music and singing workshop taught by Inam Ali Khan, son of famous Ghazal singer Hamid Ali Khan. The Head Organiser of the Museum, Fatima Salman is focused on bringing on board youth programs that promote the cultural and classical arts at the museum to preserve the pioneering spirit of the late Shakir Ali.
Nude by Shakir Ali
The Shakir Ali Museum is a befitting tribute to one of the giants who laid the foundation of art in Pakistan. As a center of cultural activity promoting all arts, we hope that it will continue to flourish and grow.
You may also like:
