'Japan in Art' exhibition opens in Islamabad

Promoting cultural dialogue through artistic expression, the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan, in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) and the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association Islamabad (PJCA), inaugurated the evocative painting exhibition "Japan in Art" at the National Art Gallery. The exhibition was formally opened by Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, alongside Ayoub Jamali, Director General of PNCA, and renowned artist Jamal Shah, President of PJCA Islamabad. The ceremony was attended by emerging artists, cultural enthusiasts and distinguished guests from diverse backgrounds. "Japan in Art" features approximately 40 compelling works by young Pakistani artists, offering imaginative interpretations of Japanese socio-cultural life. Employing a variety of techniques — from refined brushwork and coloured pencil to the traditional medium of woodblock printing — the artworks blend creative vision with cultural understanding. Addressing the inaugural gathering, Ambassador Akamatsu commended the exceptional talent and creativity of the participating artists, noting their thoughtful portrayal of Japanese culture. "This exhibition stands as a poignant testament to the enduring friendship between Japan and Pakistan — one grounded not only in diplomacy, but in cultural exchange and people-to-people connections," he remarked. During the ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu also conferred the prestigious Ambassador's Commendation for 2026 upon Jamal Shah, in recognition of his significant contributions to strengthening Japan-Pakistan cultural relations. Paying tribute to Shah's leadership and longstanding commitment to the arts, the Ambassador described the honour as a fitting acknowledgement of his sustained efforts in fostering bilateral cultural engagement. He highlighted Shah's role as Director of the Pakistan Pavilion at the Expo 2005 Aichi, as well as his support for cultural initiatives during his tenure as Minister for Culture, including the Emperor's Birthday Reception and the Yakishime exhibition. More recently, Shah curated the "Remains of Ruins" exhibition, reflecting on the devastation of nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki — an effort also acknowledged by the Ambassador. Ambassador Akamatsu expressed confidence that Shah would continue to play a vital role in advancing bilateral ties and promoting Japanese culture in Pakistan.