Islamabad, May 14, 2026: A retrospective exhibition showcasing the works of renowned Pakistani artist and sculptor Akram Dost Baloch opened at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), highlighting the rich cultural heritage, identity and lived realities of Balochistan through contemporary visual expression, Organized by Nomad Gallery in collaboration with PNCA and curated by distinguished art promoter Nageen Hyat.
Ambassador Dr. Maen Khreasat, Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to Pakistan, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The opening ceremony was attended by Ambassadors to Pakistan for Yemen, Syria, Oman and Lebanon.
Executive Director of COMSATS, Ambassador. Dr. M. Nafees Zakaria, also participated in the event, which reflected the power of art in promoting cross-cultural understanding and international engagement.
Speaking on the occasion, Amb. Dr. Maen Khreasat appreciated the artist’s work for reflecting the resilience and cultural richness of Balochistan and emphasized the role of art in preserving identity and fostering dialogue among communities and cultures. He also commended PNCA and Nomad Gallery for promoting important cultural narratives through artistic platforms.
Curator Nageen Hyat paid tribute to Akram Dost Baloch’s lifelong artistic contributions and highlighted the importance of preserving and documenting Pakistan’s artistic heritage through collaborative cultural initiatives. Visual artist and Head of the Fine Arts Department at National College of Arts, Aqeel Solangi, noted that the artist’s work reflects the collective consciousness of Balochistan while exploring themes of identity, socio-political realities and the human condition with depth and authenticity.
Hailing from Nushki, Akram Dost Baloch is regarded as one of Pakistan’s leading contemporary artists and a pioneering figure in the visual arts of Balochistan. His paintings and sculptures draw inspiration from traditional Baloch motifs, embroidery, weaving and wood carving, presented through a contemporary visual language. A graduate of the National College of Arts, he also served as a founding faculty member and former Chairperson of the Fine Arts Department at University of Balochistan. In recognition of his distinguished services to the arts, he received the Pride of Performance in 2004.
The exhibition features selected works from the artist’s acclaimed “Identity” series alongside other major works exploring themes of culture, memory, identity and belonging. It also highlights his academic research on traditional Baloch embroidery and handicrafts.
