In a time of global predicament and reckoning, when, even leading gatekeepers grappled with unchartered territories, the meanings and methods of education were also tested. Many educators during the pandemic claimed to adapt to the rapidly changing academic needs, while…
We have a unique vernacular urban heritage, and in this context, Karachi’s multi-ethnic, multi-cultural identity needs to be understood and appreciated for its diversity, richness, and pride in their living environment. Aesthetics is a universal trait of human culture that appears…
It seems that almost no area of land has been left terra incognita by human interference. Every rock and plant has fallen prey to being scaled and listed for all the wrong reasons— to occupy or replace. The overwhelming draw…
To keep abreast with art and art market developments it is imperative that art from Pakistan keep up with enduring global trends. In this article I aim to simplify the enigma that is CryptoArt, while focusing on some of the…
When I use the terms 'forsaken' and 'forgotten', I refer to the deserted spaces and abandoned objects left in disarray. These spaces and objects captivate my attention while exploring the multilayered megapolis— Karachi. Some such spaces and objects might not…
In recent decades, the landscape of Karachi has become a site of anxiety and insecurity with regards to safety. This has caused a shift in urban infrastructure to include surveillance as a key feature. The result of this inclusion impacts…
A bright pink poster popped against the stark white walls of Nepal Art Council at the beginning of March, 2022. An unequivocal testimony scrawled across the poster in big black ink also served as the title of Aqui Thami’s artwork:…
This article will draw on recent PhD research on design education for handloom weavers. It will draw primarily on findings from one of two focus case studies: Somaiya Kala Vidya (SKV) in Kachchh, western India, which provides a year-long curriculum…
On October 1st 2021 the much awaited Expo 2020, hosted by Dubai opened its doors to visitors with great fanfare and a spectacular opening ceremony. The aim of the Expo was to promote “an exhibition of culture, technology and architecture…
Reminiscing about my early years, I came to the conclusion that the Urdu word “mohalla” does not translate into English very well. It certainly does not mean “neighborhood”, and “locality” is too restrictive. “Community” would be closer to the truth,…
