Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 21:11:42 GMT

Dear Carol, I really enjoyed this posting because I was an art major in college and still paint and draw. I understand how he wanted to use the light in the building from outside to fall on the works of art. There are some nice paintings and sculptures in this museum. The black scuptures of the women in burqas sends a statement of how women are seen in the society of the region. But they have made progress in many ways. The paintings of the soldiers marching on the desert and the water were powerful works. The building is a work of art in itself. I do agree with him that "The creative process is a fever". When you are in love your temperature in higher. That is definitely a really wonderful thing! Thank you Carol for this posting! Peace to all!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

kathy gannon — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 09:29:32 GMT

very nice piece. lovely storytelling by both the reporter and the architect.
thank you

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Odd (Zuph Idzy), Pittsburgh, Pa — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:02:43 GMT

See, this is positive news...Congrats to Pakistan! Who is the curator? I want to display my art there. (Seriously)

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Doug, Louisville, KY — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:03:00 GMT

Where are the naked pics?

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Karl Stuart Kline, Delray Beach, Florida — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:10:55 GMT

Excellent piece!
It's also a story of dedication and persistence, which I appreciate.
More than that, it's a kind of public support for the social commentary that flows from artists and poets to the rest of us. The lack of intervening walls is symbolic in itself, allowing the free flow of ideas and concepts to intermingle, enhance and compete with one another.
As a poet, writer and activist, I have a special appreciation for these things, especially when they come from an unexpected source!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Joel Palmer Airdrie, Alberta — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:14:42 GMT

Another fine example of the countless aesthetic and academic contributions made by the Islamic community. Learning about and appreciating a cultures art leads to a more intimate knowledge of that culture. The more intimate ones knowledge about another culture, the less likely one is to feel fear or hatred based on cultural differences. Art strips us bare

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Patricia Murphy Harrison Maine — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:28:12 GMT

"Architeture is frozen music" I'll never look at a bulding the same way again. Thank you that was beautiful.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Ishrat Hyatt Rawalpindi Pakistan — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:30:56 GMT

Motivated me to go and have a look! By the way objections to the nudes are already making the press. How sad!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Scott Worcester Mass — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:07:10 GMT

It would be great if a "60 minutes" type program in the US would spend some time there and present such a positive glowing example of their culture.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Damon Monty, Westerly, RI — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:24:23 GMT

You only mentioned one notable artist from Pakistan. What are the other artists names? What style of art is predominate in Pakistan?

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Robin Housden, Rolla, MO — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:28:22 GMT

This is a wonderful story. Coming from such a conflict stricken area, such beauty takes place. I sincerely hope his dream of a national museum comes to fruition. The culture is so old and varied, the Pakistani people should have a place to collectively express their feelings about their history. Our country is so young in comparison.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Tughral Mirza Mississauga Ontario Canada — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:32:33 GMT

Finally one positive story in the press about Pakistan, I hope its the begining of change for the better.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Rehanna Khan, Charlotte, NC/ Lahore, Pakistan — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:32:41 GMT

I'm very impressed...Naeem Pasha had a vision and he stuck to it through the years until he saw his vision become reality when the museum finally opened. I want to go see the exhibits now. Thanks for writing this article--pakistani art is far too often ignored in the world today.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Sunil Misra — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:36:14 GMT

The 5,000 years of civilization mentioned, Muslims destroyed much of it and continue to do so. See Joseph Campbell, the mythologist, Wells, the historian, or Max Weber, the sociologist, all and many more chronicle the sheer enormity of the destruction of Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and other art and architecture throughout the subcontinent. What is left is miniscule. When I see Muslim art built upon the destroyed sacred sites of Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, upon the burnt areas of ancient libraries and universities, I would gladly trade all that modern "art" in Pakistan for what was once the glorious art of India. And no one is still safe; Pakistani backed terrorists still blow up Buddhas, destroy Gandharn art in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and still neglect and ruin ancient sites. What art? Looking for subcontinent non Muslim art is like looking for the remnants of native American villages in Long Island.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Vikram Chicago, Illinois — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:39:12 GMT

Its good to see another side of Pakistan.What we are used to in India is them sending there best(terrorists) and us fighting them and there ISI.If only they could use there man power and mind power to be progressive.Creativity in Pakistan is very very limited albeit thats the bane of Islamist Nations as creativity is stiffled none the less there are artists of all natures there.The only reason Pakistan has this is because it had been a part of India.If not for this it would be the total Crazy islamist state that Muslim nations are.Kudos to the the gentleman who set this up 50 years after Pakistan got independence. Development in pakistan can be viewed in this angle.Pessimist that i am and not a big fan of Islamist nations especially Pakistan which is the Center of all Jehadi idiots. If only Pakistan had no Mullahs.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Khaled Al-zibdeh, Houston, TX — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:40:24 GMT

This shows that Pakistan is not only more modern and advanced, but getting to more educated than some other conservative Islamic countries, lets say Saudi Arabia and Iran. It is portraying modern art with a cultural side, I loved the women in the burqa sculptures, and I think its great.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Marilyn Murphy. Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:41:20 GMT

Bravo !!! These sculptures of "burqa" are really unique idea and look awesome ...for sure, Its really different than the "western" monotonous idea of nudity.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Aftaab Ahmed — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:44:57 GMT

If pakistanis are really muslims, they should get rid of those statues. if they are hidus and hypocrites, then they will keep them.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Anwar H. Marietta, Georgia — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:55:34 GMT

great piece..thanks for this piece as it shows the positive side of Pakistan amid a lot of negatives.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Jeffery Sachs — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:11:06 GMT

To subcontinental islamophobes,
The genius of Islamic art and architecture is the form of fusion. Islam's legacy for accumulating and tranforming the past and the contemporary and transforming the surrounding through inornate geometrics is unparallel. Alhamra in Al Andalus (spain), Taj mahal in Muslim India, Hagia Sophia in Constantinopole (Turkey), Red Fort in Lahore (Pakistan), The Mosque of Omar in Damascus (Syria), The Blue mosque in Isfahan (Iran), The Jama Masjid in Tashkent (Kazakhistan). That all these architectural master pieces were built by the spirituality of a people whose only legacy was one black cube (Kaba) in the center of the vast Arabian peninsula leaves out the narrative of immense creativity and cultural accomodation that is rarely seen in any of the land Muslims once ruled over. From the destruction of Babri mosque in India (1992) to the looting and burning of the Great Museum of Baghdad by US occupation forces are just recent examples of cultural accomodation professed by the two most democratic nations in the world.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Ambreen Rizvi, Ogden, Utah — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:23:02 GMT

Mr. Pasha's work is really comendable. The light effect and the pieces of art are wonderful. I request Mr. Pasha and other atrtists and architects to build art gallaries like this in other cities of Pakistan also. This will make overseas Pakistanis proud of their country. Thanks Carol.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

John Harrison Jr. Washington DC, United States of America — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:23:39 GMT

Excellent Job, ...Sculptures of burqa clad women look gracious and powerful ...Where ever i have been, Muslim art has always impressed me ...from fame of India, one of the most magnificent and wondrous monuments created by the Muslim genius, Taj Mahal, to Islamic Art Section at Modern Art museum Manhattan, NY... or from Uzbekistan, Central Asia to the heart land of Europe, Bosnia ...Muslim art work is really magnificent ...I must admit, its second to none !

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Slim Pickens — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:25:26 GMT

I think it is great, so it makes me wonder how long it will last before the Islamists blow it up. The women in Burgas statues out front remind me of restless spirits leading you to a secret.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

john florida — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:29:55 GMT

It is good to see that people all over the world are not much different each other. they all want the freedom to express who they are, without the meddling of religious fanatics that would want to stop them. You may not agree with their form of expression but they should not be held back by some religious idiot.When religion stands in the way of progress and freedoms of the people they serve one should question the religion.As long as people are not being destructive to society in general they should and must express themselves in any way that is available to them.I say leave art to artists and religion to priests. But one has no just cause to stand in the way of the other.People are not sheep and should not be forced to follow each other like sheep.where would we be if we did?we would all still be in the stone age !!Art is just another form of freedom and should be expressed weather you agree with it or not. YOU DON'T LIKE IT DON'T GO TO THE MUSEUM.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Bernd Weller, Toronto, Ontario, Canada — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:31:45 GMT

What a wonderful and surprising portrait of diverisity in a country often viewed as overly influenced by extremists (such as Aftaab Ahmed, if his comments are to be taken seriously). The human spirit will always find a way to free itself from artificial boundaries imposed by politics and religion and art will always triumph over authority. Bravo to Pakistan and Bravo to Naeem Pasha for defying sterotypes and giving artistic and human beauty a special place where we can come and admire.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Jawad Hujjetat Elam Al-Farsi — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:39:20 GMT

This display of nudity is forbidden in Islam. These images should be removed from the musuem immideately.
There is nothing Islamic about having such a deviant instution in muslim country.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

and3, malvern, Pa — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:41:24 GMT

Which status Aftaab? The women in the burqas? I agree, i find those status ominous, threatening and depressing.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:44:33 GMT

Pak is definitely a creative country and art is one of its better exports. In India, culture and art from the Islamic world in general – and Pak, Afghan and Mughal art in particular – has always found expression and resonated with the people here. It has contributed to our poetry, music, architecture, cuisine and culture in general and forms an important part of our history. Some our famous actors, poets, musicians and artists of all forms have had their origins there. So I’m sure any outlet for art in Pak will be a very interesting place to visit.

Friends on the other side of the border tell me that Indian art and culture is just as appreciated there. A majority of us people on both sides of the border each appreciate the other's culture irrespective of issues between us and I think cultural exchanges will go a long way towards better relations for out two countries, so kudos!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Firasat Ali, Tuskegee and Auburn, Alabama — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:45:38 GMT

Dear Carol: You have created a cool forum for inviting comments. Thanks to most of the comments that have enhanced the forum's capacity to stay cool and thus encourage creativity.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Tazeen Hina, Virginia. USA. — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:55:05 GMT

it has given me great pleasure to share the detailed article about Pakistan's National Art gallery with my foreign friends. I look forward to going back to Islamabad,Pakistan and visit this wonderful and great art gallery.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Ejaz Younas, Annapolis, MD — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:02:14 GMT

Sunil Misra and Vikram both represent the extremely narrow mindedness of hindu mentality. They forgot that whatever is build in India is work of Muslims, Taj Mahel is the best example of a Muslim's aspirations of his love life. These people are so narrow minded that they never expect the good things heppening in Pakistani part of subcontinent.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

David Higgs, Hudson, N.Y. 12534 — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:21:13 GMT

Any attempt to present artwork by Pakistan is a laudable aspiration. Peace and understanding may eventually be achieved if nations can exchange their cultural prizes. Art has been the basis of all civilization and it has created the modern conveniences, medical sciences and advances of man from the days of the Cavemen. The way people express themselves can be the basis of understanding for the entire planet without regard to national identity, race or creed as an obstacle to freedom for all. The destruction of art in Rome was done by a tribe known as Vandals. The word has continued to mean those who have no respect for beauty and human achievement.
Only love and trust. beauty and understanding mingled with the compassion espoused by all the major religions can combat the evils of Apocalyptic marchings. We must act to save the human race now. Art gives us the pride as human beings we need to end bloodshed and tyranny. Hooray Pasha! Keep up the good work and please save as much art as you can. A pity so much has already perished. DH

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

oldefarte — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:30:43 GMT

Despite some credentials as an artist, I can do without the mystic mumbo-jumbo of "art communicating with art". What I will say is that it is pleasant, after almost a quarter century of deconstructivist hideousness and post-modernist frou-frou, to see an honest building, which does its job of showcasing art without insisting on calling attention to itself. Now, all we have to do is to wait for I.M. Pei to die so we can remove that hideous glass pyramid from the courtyard of the Louvre, where it has sat, for too many years, like an infectious chancre on Angelina Jolie's lips.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

M.Hashmi — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 17:15:34 GMT

Finally a positive article about Islamic art and civilzation that has been ignored for far too long in the mainstream media coverage. And to negative comments from few all I can say that Muslims did not destroy India; they built much of the architectural monuments that present day India is so proud of and adverise in the international media like Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, Agra Fort, Red Fort in Delhi, Jama Masjid in Delhi and so many others in all over India that were built during Mughal and earlier Muslim period in India.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Biplabh, USA — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 17:21:19 GMT

To Jeffrey Sachs,
I guess you are acting as "non-islamo"-phobe while basing your argument with false information. Taj Mahal was built by Hindu architects and labors who were forced to work and later they were rewarded by cuttign their thumb and index fingers so that no one else can hire those talented architects and workers.
Most islamic architecture you see in India echoes the fact that they were built by Hindus and Hindus-converted-to-Islam and they were built after destroying Hindu temples and architectures. The few Hindu temples left were just lucky to evade the eyes of islamic destroyers. Babri masjid was also built upon destruction of a Hindu temple. BTW: if they were so great, why don't we see them building nice architectures like Taj Mahal - oh b'coz they cannot enslave the Hindu or Christian artists any more. Most of the modern architecture you see in the middle east are actually done by US/European contractors and architects. So please... get your facts straight.... and are you talking about destruction? What about destroying the WTC Twin towers, Buddha statue in Afghanistan or Gandharn art destruction? Oh please, you do not want me to start the list... it will be a long long list.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Wayne, TN — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 17:22:04 GMT

I've always considered Muaslim artwork to be awesome in its ability to capture a feeling without true to form representation of living things. Its the genesis of abstract art.

The burqa clad statues skip past the prohibition on living things by representing the non living matter of the clothing with only the cloaked form to suggest life underneath. Somewhat like the suits of armor standing in european castles and manor houses, or a spacesuit in a NASA exhibit.

John of Damascus wrote a very estute defense of religious icons which explains the manner in which such images focus the minds eye. Worth reading.

While prohibiting certain types of representations of the human form is stiffling to the art world, a look at the Maplethorpe controversy here shows just how the very definition of what constitutes art has become almost meaningless in western society.

While Medieval Muslim physicians did great work in tracing the development of the fetus and the digestive tract, their medical texts look like they were scrawled by a six year old. Not for lack of skill but simply because they were afraid to show the human body in a realistic manner.
European Medical texts of the same era are so well drawn that many are still used in modern medical studies.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

John Doe — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 17:27:42 GMT

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh Pakistan..the next Palestine

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Islamabad — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 17:40:53 GMT

The artchitecture as described is a mode of expression and the reflection of the concepts, mindset and the values of a society or the individual who holds them. Islamic society is based on the values shaped by the Koran and the example of the prophet among them is unity and devotion to Allah, rejection of nudity, adhearance to modesty esp of women, and if all of them if really exist in a society are automatically reflected in architectural expressions. Since burqa in Islam represents a means of modesty attested by Koran so its is not viewed in Islam as suffocating rather its liberating one of physical desires and attrations and focussing on spiritual purity and energy. Nudity is unIslamic western norm of "freedom" of expression entirely opposite to Islam's view. Its symbol of humbleness and piety.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

I.A — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 18:13:27 GMT

Great piece! Excellent on all counts.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

M. Smith WV — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 18:15:11 GMT

Those sculptires in front of the museum...did anyone else think of the Nazgul from "The Lord of the Rings"?

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Akash, Bombay — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 18:38:33 GMT

Dear Jeffrey,

The Babri Mosque was razed as it was originally built by razing a Hindu temple. What goes around comes around. Has it struck you that the Islamophobes in the subcontinent are wary on account of having seen wonderful Islam in action?
Barely a few kilometers from my town in North India is a beautiful Buddhist monastery, with hundreds of beheaded Buddhas- thanks to your cultural connoisseurs. If one were to catalogue the number of temples, gurudwaras and other places of worship, not to mention cultural artifacts razed by the forces of Islam in the subcontinent, one would lose count.
Lastly, whats amusing is your statement that India bar Islam had little to show in the way of culture- visit the country, and then talk. Islam is but one facet of what ancient India, achieved in terms of art and culture.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Rachel, Prescott, AZ — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 20:33:25 GMT

I find it interesting that since the burque "in Islam represents a means of modesty attested by Koran so its is not viewed in Islam as suffocating rather its liberating one of physical desires and attrations and focussing on spiritual purity and energy. Nudity is unIslamic western norm of "freedom" of expression entirely opposite to Islam's view. Its symbol of humbleness and piety", women are forced to wear it but the men are not.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

D. Morris, St. Louis, Missouri — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 20:35:53 GMT

To Ishrat Hyatt Rawalpindi, Pakistan

The objections to the nudes may be sad but, in an Islamic coutry? Totally predictable. There was some of the same air in the United States ( a Christian country) in the 80's coming from right wing Christian/Republican extremists...Religion? The bane of human existence...kill it, ban it, legislate it out of public/political existence

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

bob wallace key west, florida — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 21:26:42 GMT

very nice, but go see it now because it will be blown up within a year by you know who. (the usual suspects!)

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

AZ, KS — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 23:34:11 GMT

Folks, here you see clear examples of Hindu minds at work. After reading this beautiful post, a work of art in itself, they have nothing better to say but are jealous and have started their "main na manoon" routine. Pakistan has been a pain in their rear for over half a century and there ain't no cure for that.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Sharon Walker Folsom, CA — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:12:41 GMT

Dear Friends:
How different the sculptures expression is compared to the real world!
Bland, moving, shiftily, no mystery, while the artist expersses shape it is not defined as male or female in the burgas. They neither define their shape and or experssion or interpretation of the world. They are like shadows of which Holy things do not have. They are past, unseen, unspoken, children without love, without the instinctive experessions of man. It is like a web of time that has no beginning and no end. The Arabs in my world are seen as more than this. Feeling, real and they also had children with experessions not absent.

I feel for you. For the men though they not say it are absent in the interactive expression.

A baloon has more than this. It can be painted on.
In other worlds you wear other cloths and wear a mask much like Shakespear. Life absent.

You are not just about oil.

Abraham had a face and so did his wife and children.

Yet you choose other nations to be schooled at.

Many years of art and music and emotion.

What is in your biotechnology and nanotechnology the past?

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Sharon Walker, Folsom, CA — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 00:14:11 GMT

Dear Friends:
Freedom of speech. Come out of the dark!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Vernon Crouch, Petersburg, Virginia — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 02:38:51 GMT

I agree with many other commentators- it was very uplifting and a true pleasure to read about and view art from a non-western country. All the prior images in my head, about Pakistan, involved poverty, pain and suffering. Thank you for enlarging my concept. [And thank you particularly for the shot of the sculpture display- I love sculpture!]

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

oam, Al — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 02:52:02 GMT

to bilabh,
here are some facts about the Taj Mahel,
Many architects have rated it as the most perfect of all buildings standing on earth. Three artists designed it: a Persian, an Italian, and a Frenchman. But the design is completely Mohammedan. Even the skilled artisans who built it were brought in from Baghdad, Constantinople, and other centers of the Muslim faith.
Get your facts right!!!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

ALTAF, PLANO, TEXAS — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 03:25:27 GMT

Great write up. Thanks Pasha for your contributions. As for the pathetic Islamophobic Indians, feel sorry for your inferiority complex and complete ignorance of facts. Go visit the Islamic world and you will learn that besides your country Islamic art has impacted evey continent. Where would India be without Muslim influence? Be wearing dhoti and eating tastless lentils!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Harin, Mumbai — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 03:59:22 GMT

A huge country of 160 million gets an art gallery with some nudes thrown in. I am stunned. This is an achievement par excellence for any nation, more so for Pakistan because it is Muslim. (Pakistan did not _start out_ all Muslim, but only achieved that discinction after eliminating its minorities in pogroms, but I digress.) Pakistan's singular lack of art and architectural wealth is the direct result of the Islamic barbarism that ravaged the subcontinent in the dark days of the millenium gone by. Ancient India (and that includes Pakistan) was incredibly rich in the fine arts, with standing Hindu and Buddhist temples respledent with stunning architecture and gold that were centuries if not millenia old. (The Taj Mahal was built by Hindu artisans, who then had their hands severed by the Muslim emperor to prevent them building another one like it!) Having themselves destroyed art and pulled down most architectural landmarks (the most recent being the Bamiyan Buddhas destroyed by pakistani Taliban), they are now showcasing their "moderation" with a sooper-dooper gallery. One containing nudes, no less. I am *so* impressed.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

dr ali ,jeddah, ksa — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 04:08:58 GMT

Very nice article.but why the focus on nudes so much.men & women look nice when covered.even in a big black flowing burqa.its better than getting skin cancer while going around in a bikini...and please ignore those indian comments.we made pakistan as we could not tolerate the suffocation anymore.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Shari, Florida — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 04:16:55 GMT

I must say that my first impression of the burqa-clad women was one of dark spirits - like grim-reapers without the scythes. I respect what they are trying to do and hopefully bringing more culture and beauty into these cities will give the people something to contemplate other than the violence and destruction that seems to have dominated their society for so many years.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

John Wall, Kabul, — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 05:56:20 GMT

Congratulations, Carol, for presenting a glimpse of the softer face of Pakistan, which is all too crowded out by the ubiquitious news of turmoil. Even more congradulations to Naeem Pasha for his persistence over 17 years in designing this giant step toward establishing a national art gallery in the nations' capital. I see this as part of the much needed healing of the society that is emerging from the horrible trauma of partition of the Sub-Continent--twice in Pakistan's case (1947, 1971). The Folk Museum opened in Islamabad a few years agon is another. Islamabad is becoming a rising peak in Pakistan's cultural landscape. Naeem Pasdha has used Pakistan's must abundant resources (light, sand, water and mud) to great effect. Of course Pakistan's story is not only an Islamic one, as great as thay is, particularly during the flowering of the Mughal civilization. The Indus Basin civilization started at least 5000 years ago, with the Harrapan culture's wonderous art legacy, some of which could fit smoothly into this modern art collection (the Harrapan Dancing Girl, one of the world's most accomplished pieces of art). I hope it will not take another 17 years toopen the a National Museum. Pakistan holds some of the world's greatest art treasures from the Harrapan, Gandharan Budhist, Greek, Persian,Hindu,Mughal, and British periods. Many of these can be seen now, in the Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Taxila and SWAT musuems; and some at open sites. Now a truly National Collection of the art created in the Indus Basin and Kalokorams needs a distinguished home.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Jonathan Metcalf — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 06:33:57 GMT

i am assuming a lot of people have not read history to the same tenacity as i have. india's heritage exists because of pakistan. in actuality, the hindu religion started in the banks of the Indus river (in punjab, pakistan) and later migrated with the aryans to north india. its quite depressing that people that originate from their country dont know anything historical--just the political side of it. pakistan has hardly any hindu temples (in the past and present) because the majority of people there converted to Lord Buddha's way of life. in actuality, they converted to get rid of the rifts of legal apartheid thats present in Hinduism. the term INDIA originates from the Greeks due to the course of the Indus river--which is entirely in Pakistan. so in reality the religion and even the name has originated west of the indus river--not india. of the 8000 years of history that exists for pakistan, only two times have pakistan and india been functioning as one kingdom. once with the Maurya dynasty for about a hundred years and another with the British colony system. its just a drop in the bucket explaining the differences between the two regions. pakistan has always been more western influenced (with the persians, mongols, scythians, kushans and more invaders coming throughout history) and india has always been comparatively isolated. if you compare someone from South India and a person from Pakistan side by side, you'll see australo-negroid features (such as short height, thick nose, curly hair) in the indian specimen while the pakistani is more likely to be taller, bigger framed, straighter hair--essentialy features that point at the mixing of multiple types of races such as afghans, mongols, arab, central asian and caucasians.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

john metcalf — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 06:36:11 GMT

here is a link for all the people on here that dont really know much about the historical context of india and pakistan. www.geocities.com/pak_history/

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

AMM — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 06:54:48 GMT

Jeffrey Sachs,

The Haggia Sophia was built by the Emperor Justinian two centuries before Mohammed was born. Most of the other wonders you mentioned were built using the fruits (including architechts and engineers) of conquered Persian, Byzantine, and Hindu civilizations.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

noriel, pomona, new york — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 09:00:40 GMT

I am very pleased to find diversity in a place where art and culture display the richness and beauty of a nation.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Ahmed Abdullah, Karachi, Pakistan — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 09:09:30 GMT

The irony here is that this was done under Gen. Musharraf. He was main sponsor, the main supporter. All past govt. had their chance but did not do it. Makes you wonder where Pakistan is headed with two timer prime minister vying for a third go around.

Its very ironic, the same people who appreciate the art and the harshest critics of Musharraf.

Anyway, this is fine museum a great article, Kudos to all who helped achieve this accomplishment.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Jennifer Lowden, Ithaca, NY — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 09:14:26 GMT

Why are the non-Muslim Indians so irritated by success in Pakistan?

Wouldn't it be better for you guys to get along? You look the same, talk the same language, eat the same food, love the same movies, listen to the same music, play the same sports.

Why this hatred of a Pakistani museum?

Please just get along!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Vikram,Chicago, Illinois — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:34:22 GMT

To some who didnt like my posts. When a country is occupied by aliens(Mughals) and ruled by them what do you expect? Like the other gentlemen who have posted, Ejaz , is it not a fact that Muslims destroyed a number of Hindu,Buddhist and Jain temples ? Lets not go there. As to your comments read mine first, i appreciated what the gentleman was doing in Pakistan.Fact is this has been setup 50 years after it became a nation.Did it ever strike your mind as to why there was none since the last 50 years? There are a bunch in India.The narrowness that you see is bcos the Magnanimity of Hindus was misused.Pakistan was created on this idea of Magnanimity aka Partition of Greater India.Bangladesh on the other hand a former part of Pakistan was created not out of magnanimity but out of sheer cruelness, attrocities that were commited against Bangladeshis by Pakistanis.Oh and this is in the 20th century mind you. Check this out on Wikepedia.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1971_Bangladesh_atrocities. Btw i didnt post it lol.
To the comments on Babri Masjid and about, americans doing something in Irag, Muslims themselves are destroying there own architecture in Iraq. Do you have an anwser to that? Would any muslim like the Kaba occupied(weird thing is muslims are not supposed to worship any idol or structure(?))? or any Jew there holy temples ? The answer is Anger and a big NO! at that one line. Its the same reason the Babri Masjid came down, to a muslim a mosque means nothing its empty, the simple reason it is meant is to congregate and pray( it can be done without or within) for hindus Temples are Holy places.A lot of these famous and grand structures were built over temples.In some places which are very holy for Hindus you will find Mosques sitting right on top of them(no exageration check, they are still there.Inda as a nation is tolerant more so than any other nation.Ahh i can keep going on on and on about the felxibility of other religions vis a vie Islam and Islamic countries.
Nonetheless the architecture from whichever religion is adimrable and the artists who created them, case in question is how did they come to be. The contribution of Islamic architecture is wonderfull but it was done at a cost to other architectural wonders and other artists.

Interesting Article i found.

http://voi.org/books/tlmr/ch3.htm

Sorry for the very long posting and rebuttal. There is one country which has factories of it. Pakistan. aka every Terrorist probably has the Made in Pakistan tag. Its would be great if that changes. I would be the first one to congratulate if that happens.

Yes to Art and Artists. No to lunatics and Terrorists.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

MalteseFalcon786, Toronto, Ontario — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 10:59:57 GMT

To Biplabh
Guess who is disseminating false information - the Taj Mahal was designed by Ustad Ahmed Lahori, and the calligraphy is by Amanat Khan. Do they sound like Hindus to you? The labourers were Hindu, but the story about the cutting off of their fingers and thumbs is an old-wive's tale. What "facts" are you basing your posting on?

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Abbas Ali, Karachi — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 11:49:38 GMT

This goes to people like biplah, vikram and their likes who cant appreciate an advancement because its taking place in Pakistan, leave your biased mentality aside for a while and appreciate the art! I think the initiator created this blog not to hear how islamic forces razed temples and beheaded buddha statue. After all it was people like you who had a hand in triggering those events and my list is way longer than yours so dont get me started! have you forgotten the atrocities your hindu brethren have commited in Gujrat, maybe this will jog your amensia effected memory http://www.theunjustmedia.com/atrocities_committed_by_hindu_terrorists%20in%20gujurat.htm

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Brett Lafayette, LA — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 11:59:19 GMT

Someone will correct me if I am wrong, no doubt. But, did't this article's title mention "nudes"? eventhough the article only briefly mentions unseen nude art? Well, I guess "nudity" is still selling the written word....where would our art world be without it. I'm looking forward to everyone using nudity to sell there ideas and products. Albeit seedy, it sure gets us to look.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

David Miller, London — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:04:49 GMT

Well its been a long time in coming but its really heartning to see the cultural values in pakistan transcending the religious obstacles. One thing that really intrigues me is that whenever there's some development in Pakistan, the indians are always quick to rain on their parade, they start dissing Pakis and start to rant about all the so called atrocities perpetuated by Muslims in the distant past! The conflicts in history blame both the nations, hindus with their caste system still subjugate the lesser caste hindus, lesser caste hindus are not allowed to pray in the same temples as their high caste couterparts! what iam trying to imply here is that appreciate the advancement and stop delving in the past instead for the sole purpose of marring the moment!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Syed Mahmood — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 12:12:28 GMT

Very nice story and art gallery also but I am worried. I think its only a matter of time before a Jihadi Mullah reads this story and send his mind poisend teen aged follower to storm and burn the gallery down to ground.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

IMTIAZ FARUQUI — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 13:04:56 GMT

LETS KEEP THE TOPIC TO ART AND NOT POLITICS. IN PAKISTAN THE CITY OF KARACHI HAS SEVERAL ART GALLARIES AND IN ANOTHER SMALL CITY OF HYDERABAD SINDH I STUDIED ART AS A REGULAR SUBJECT FROM PASTEL TO WATER COLORS FROM SKECTHING TO DESIGNING THIS WAS 1959 IN SAINT BONAVENTURES HIGH SCHOOL A CATHOLIC SCHOOL AND ONE OF MY PAINTING STILL HANGS IN THE ART GALLERY OF PUBLIC SCHOOL HYDERABAD. PAKISTAN IS A VERY MORDERN PLACE AS WELL AS ISAMIC THERE IS NOTHING WRONG , ARTISTS AND MULLAHS ARE CO-EXISTING. IMTIAZ FARUQUI

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

M.Usman , Ottawa, ON, Canada — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 14:43:32 GMT

Great piece of art, Definitly we are going to see in our next trip to islamabad. Comments from Indian were uncalled for as they should realised that 500 years muslim rule of India, no body was forcefully converted,forget about destorying Hindu religious sites.I am surprized how these comments were approved by you.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Sally Penna — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 14:46:11 GMT

Love is the common ground of all religions. It is love which binds us together. Our human love of great art is s part of that which draws us together as one whether it is in India, Pakistan or Tanzania. Love knows no boundaries, has no enemies.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Joya, pennsylvania — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 16:27:54 GMT

The destruction of Hindu and Buddhist temples did happen and mosques were built in its place. The holiest of temples for Hindus in Varanasi “The Kashi Vishwanatha temple” which is mentioned in our ancient scriptures was destroyed by the invading Muslim army and mosque was built in its place. This happened because of the invading Arab and Muslim armies from the Middle East who later converted the people into Islam forcefully and brutally in India. The people from the subcontinent are one people (India and Pakistan) whether Hindu, Muslim, or Buddhist. Let’s not hate each other for something that these foreigners did. The Hindus and Muslims in India and Pakistan have a common Heritage and have more things in common than with people (Muslims) elsewhere. Let's not fight each other in the name of religion. I am happy that the art museum has opened in Pakistan.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

John, NYC NY — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 16:37:18 GMT

So one person is creative, does not imply the country is. So one tiny section of the evil country has art, does not mean we all should feel impressed. It is such a shame so many get sucked into the illusional world of propaganda.It is actually disgraceful to portray women in this manner.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

MAJYD AZIZ, KARACHI, PAKISTAN — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 16:46:59 GMT

Is National Interest really in the nation’s interest?

Majyd Aziz

(The writer is President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. majydaziz@gmail.com)

"Most of the greatest evils that man has inflicted upon man have come through people feeling quite certain about something which, in fact, was false." : Bertrand Russell

National interest (or as referred to in Pakistan: Mulk ke azeem tar mufaad mein) are probably the most callously over-worked words in Pakistan’s vocabulary these days. Over the years, these words have been over-used by everybody and anybody who wanted to justify their actions. As the years go by, the proponents of the words increase and their commitment to these words become so paramount that they actually and religiously deem every word and deed of theirs as in the national interest. This is more rife and relevant in political circles than in other spheres of activity. Political leaders and those in the corridors of power, imbued with self-established concepts that are very remote from ground realities, talk of national interest enveloped in integrity and righteousness and then indulge in activities that include rigged elections, blatant corruption, horse-trading, and spin doctoring.

Politicos and government Ministers talk about a social revolution for the welfare of the poor while living in a state of opulence themselves. They talk about development of the country but when their policies get implemented, the end result is that more people dive under the poverty line. They talk about the national interest but one senses that what they really refer to is their own personal interest or the interest of their kith and kin. The sad fact of life here is that the citizens know and understand that they are being taken on a ride to Fantasyland and that there would be no manna falling down from the Heaven, yet they seem to not only believe the rhetoric but continue to maintain their faith in these political parties and their leaders. The latter of course know it is nothing but an amusing game for them, yet they carry on with this façade ad nauseum.

Some of these pretenses are worth enumerating and talking about. The prime deception that is always developed and highlighted is that the government in power is truly the most patriotic and that the opposition parties are infested with traitors, vagabonds, and the scum of the earth. Every opposition leader is a personification of Judas. The comical spectacle is when the government Minister or senior parliamentarian comes on private electronic media and vilifies the opposition leader, giving two hoots to the real truth, that only a few moons ago he or she had sworn lifelong allegiance to that leader and party policies. The coldhearted switch was done in the national interest.

Our valiant armed forces are engaged in high intensity warfare with terrorists and extremists who have vowed to take their revenge on Pakistan because the President is, according to them, doing the bidding of the super power across the seven seas. A brigade of suicide bombers has been placed in strategic locations and has wreaked havoc in places where no one dared to tread before. Sporadic news does come out thru the ever-present “reliable sources”, but the mindset of the government publicity department is still in days of yore, trying to muzzle every authentic report, and coming out with a sanitized ho-hum version that either nothing happened or if it did occur, then there was no cause to worry and things were under effective control. Moreover, further information cannot be disclosed since it falls under the domain of national interest.

The recent events have drastically upset the citizens, the silent majority, and these have impacted dangerously on the thinking process. An open season has been declared by inimical elements against the much-revered armed forces and this could have serious repercussions on the working of the armed forces in the future. One hopes that if the need arises then there would be an enthusiastic positive response from the denizens of this motherland for the armed forces. Pakistanis are a peace loving nation and they hold the armed forces in high esteem. The recent events have created a chasm that must not be allowed to become dark and deep. The abyss must be filled up for the sake of the country. Right now the chasm is supposedly created in the national interest too. At present, the allegations of possible corruption, political interference, mismanagement, and weak leadership have eroded the image of the armed forces. This must be addressed on an imperative basis by all concerned as this is actually in the national interest too.

The government propaganda machinery is still battling to ensure that, notwithstanding the resolve of the present government to have a free media, the newspapers and electronic media are kept under immense pressure if possible. Government advertisements are a lethal tool that can be utilized ruthlessly on the print media. Private TV channels are hostage to the cable companies or the dictates of PEMRA. All these in the grand national interest.

There is always talk about sacrifices. People are routinely exhorted to sacrifice while those who pontificate do so without any qualms about their own initiatives to sacrifice. Leaders who are most enthusiastic proponents of national interests appear to be the most reluctant in this respect. Three score years down the line after Independence, the nation is still being asked to sacrifice so that those who wheel and deal their way to power continue to maintain their stranglehold on the country’s destiny. These leaders and even their minions are so conscious of their own safety that the country’s law and order enforcing agencies have now made it their full-time job to be on VVIP duty. What difference does it make to the people in power if during their visits, the traffic is in disarray, crime shoots up, and people curse every second they have to wait for the cavalcade of high and mighty to pass unobstructed and in neo-royal style? Of course, this security, and even the discomfort for the citizens, is in the national interest too. Why talk about Ministers and political leaders in United Kingdom or Austria or even in Sweden who often take the train to work? It will be enlightening if the public is told how much it costs the taxpayer every time the Prime Minister travels from Islamabad to Karachi for instance. That too in the national interest.

The Constitution of a country is the most sacrosanct document and its sanctity and worth is held supreme by all pillars of the government. Amendments are made after lots of discussions, after lots of brainstorming, and after developing a consensus. Amendments are not made to suit someone’s personal agenda. Alas, the Pakistani Constitution has become a concubine for people in power. It is routinely made to dance to the tune played from the echelons of the powerful. Of course, all this is in the largest national interest. The politicians, once having tasted the fruits of power, forget the right path and develop their own private roadway to achieve their own ambitions. When in opposition, the politicians are the most idealistic and profess themselves as self-sacrificing human beings. Their every word and intonation ooze with the magic phrase ‘national interest’ but when they get the chance to reign, there is little they relinquish for the sake of the nation.

The politicians speak a lot about the economy and never miss a moment to yodel from the top of the mountains that the country’s economic fundamentals are in top gear, the State Bank coffers are brimming with dollars and euros, foreign investors are making a beeline with satchels full of money to invest all over the country, and the movers and shakers of the stock exchanges and the financial sector are laughing all the way to the bank. While much of this is true, any criticism of the government’s economic policies is against the national interest. It is common knowledge that most of the politicians, as well as some advisors, are incompetent misfits in the world of economics and that the country ends up paying the price for their mismanagement. It has happened during all the past regimes. Ministers and advisors take it as a personal affront if trade and industry leadership disapproves or shows a negative disposition to the government’s economic policies. It is not in the national interest to complain and condemn.

The successive governments have been, for various reasons, accused of selling the family silver in the name of privatization. Each transaction is alleged to be non-transparent, sold at lower than market rates, given to favorites or unknown off-shore companies, and done in haste. The government spin doctors cry themselves hoarse trying to convince all and sundry that the deal was truly kosher. And, naturally in the larger national interest. Even white elephant projects are touted as in the national interest inspite of billions of rupees going down the drain or into secret bank accounts.

Then comes the time when the political landscape is about to change. The loyalties and allegiances take on different hues. Yesterday’s opposition leaders, reviled and despised, suddenly become saviors and messiahs, all in the national interest. Deals are consummated behind closed doors in alien lands, foreign interference becomes common knowledge though never admitted, constituencies parameters are amended, massive shifting of bureaucracy becomes an everyday affair, and rules and regulations are re-written, all in the name of national interest. The oft-repeated mantra of provincial autonomy again becomes the rallying point but just for the parochial-minded small minority. Everyone wants to see a united, democratic, and prosperous country in this land called Pakistan. Any idea or action, which moves the land in this direction, is in the national interest. Till, undoubtedly, the elections are over. Then it is back to the old chessboard.

It is apparent that the President is determined to keep the Presidential mantle safe within his reach. Nevertheless, in the Pakistani politics culture and attitude, he has to indulge in co-habitation between him and a legislature possibly dominated by another political party or a coalition. Normally this would be unworkable and ill-considered, but in Pakistan the impossible is easily transformed into the possible. All for the sake of national interest. Wearing or doffing the uniform depends on what is in the best interest of the nation especially with regard to the war on terrorism and extremism. It is an accepted fact that the President has done a superb job safeguarding the integrity of the nation while at the same time reviving the economy. The people of this country are mature and understand the situation Pakistan is faced with. The President can now do one thing, which no one can deny is in the national interest. He can give the green signal for the General Elections so that the people may speak, because ultimately it should always be that what the people say and believe is really in the national interest.

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." Martin Luther King, Jr.

*****************************************************************

KARACHI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

AIWAN-I-TIJARAT ROAD

KARACHI 74000 SINDH PAKISTAN

TEL: (92-21) 921-8020 / 921-8030 FAX: (92-21) 921-8040 EMAIL: president@karachichamber.com

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Shazia Arain — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 16:59:36 GMT

Excellent piece. Thank you for our coverage. Pakistan is very rich in heritage , arts and culture and am glad Mr.Pasha devoted 17 years to see his vision come to life. I am curious and would love to visit and take my kids to see this art gallery.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Naz H. — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 17:09:47 GMT

Thank you Carol for writing a positive article. Unfortunately Indians always have to be negative and jealous of any positive news coming out regarding Pakistan. Here is piece of advice to all the Indians ... Do not use the Tajmahal to promote India if you really dislike muslims so much. Also make Banaras your capital not Delhi(Mughal capital).

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

John, Tucson Arizona — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 17:22:25 GMT

Muslim art? Seems the only tools that muslim "artists" use these days is Semtex to destroy anything that is not their idea of beauty.
The "art" in that museum looks like something that third graders would be capable of.
They are so repressed that its no wonder they are anxious to become "martyrs"

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

mahreen, lahore — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:43:09 GMT

the "muslims" of the current south east asia are natives(the indians and pakistanis share the same ancestors my great great gret grandfather could be the hindu architect who made taj mahal)...so contemporary art from pakistan or india is not hindu or muslim art...its art from the sub continent!...enjoy...its one of us making it!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Alexandra, Lancaster, UK — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:45:19 GMT

To Jeffrey Sacks: I also admmire and enjoy islamic art, but just to add one more correction to the facts, Hagia Sophia is Byzantine art and was created as a Christian temple by Konstantinos the Great (you can see how Hagia Sophia is a Christian saint).
Good of you to want to be open minded, but not with wrong facts (google it).

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Peter Burgers — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 19:17:58 GMT

The article was very interesting but the comments after were even more so. It tell me how little I know of the world and how wonderful it would be to have more time to know it.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

DHC, NY — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 19:30:12 GMT

It's wonderful to think that such a place can exist in Pakistan. The pity is that one such place, after 60 years of existence doesn't mean very much. It's certainly not an example of a new enlightenment rising over the land. Until Mulvees/Mulahs and religion in general, begin to teach enlightenment rather than hatred and exclusivity such displays are little more than the flash from a 1950's camera flash bulb... poof and they're gone... or in this case, I suspect it will be more of an explosion by uneducated, hatemonging lunatics. Pakistan zindabad

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Miller, D. Kansas City, Kansas — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 20:05:01 GMT

Art is art - a symbol of creativity of an imaginative genius. Kuddos to great artist Pasha to represent what is norm in Pakistan for women. All such creations should be valued. Moderate muslims who similar to others in the democratic world consider themselves first as humans than something else of unity should come out and voice strongly to protest against the religious hipocracy and subjugation of women and people of other faiths. Voices of strong universal protest will arrest the potential threats to global peace and civilization and human creativty. Love, serve and preserve the creatures of this only one known beautiful gifted earth and not Islamophobe gangs and their large band of supporters in Pakistan. And if any one who wants to visit this contemporary creation please do so before it is demolished by these perpetrators.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Vikram,Chicago,Illinois — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 20:26:44 GMT

Its fascinating to see what a person filters out from what he reads isnt it? Like i said in my last post i admire the hard work and creativity of the Artist and his ,other artists/sculptors works in this Art Gallery, no question about that.
I hope Pakistan progresses from being a Safe Haven for Terrorists to a safe haven for Artists.
BTW can anybody deny this fact for arguments sake,how can Pakistan be called progressive when it has all these Madrasas churning out weirdos and all the bad people on the FBI list are caught in Pakistan ( i simply wonder why???),why would your president Musharraf have to use force against these crazy people, (this is not disconnected with what the Author says here "defies Pakistan's image as a deeply conservative country of religious extremists",though this part of "advancement" as one of the gentleman posts is definitely progressive)?
I havent posted on this site before so i havent read or have an idea of "Hindus" like myself posting about Pakistan or Pakistan related things.

I have this simple request of Pakistanis, keep what you have dont ask us for what we(Indians) have.We have given you enough, we dont need anything from you.Is it too much to ask of the Pakistanis that they leave us in Peace and go on the path of progress for there peoples sake?

Like i said it would be great to see progress of the sorts the Author has illustrated, more of this than the Mullah Madrassa stuff.Above is the result of the 10 percent sane pakistanis, not in the short PJ's and caps( this comment is in reply to some gentleman posting about Indians would have been in Dhotis etc).

To the gentleman(Abbas Ali) who posted the link, thank you, i do know about it and now the courts are prosecuting them.The trigger for that was the burning of people in the train. This cant top what Pakistan did to there own Muslim brethren in Bangladesh or Kashmir in 1948.

As to why my posts are in here, i think the internet is a free country if am not wrong .lol. Free Speech without any foul language i suppose is fine isnt it? Not a govt regulated or controlled country like Saudi Arabia,(read the article about the Women there petitioning the King for a right to drive, and Islam is Progressive and this in the very place where Islam is born and exists? Give me a break please.)
Nonetheless i shouldnt play spoil sport(my frustration is when the word progressive is used with Pakistan)in this huge achievement of Architect Naeem Pasha for his perseverance and dedication to Art. Wish him the best!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Randy Jacobs, Memphis, Tn — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 20:55:26 GMT

This is great!!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Yondaime, Seoul — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 21:01:51 GMT

to Biplabh,
I think you should find more information about your WTC.....don't you see......about WTC, you've been foolish by your press....it is not muslim fault, how can the such strong building like WTC can collapsed just like that....how 'they' could easily determined the terrorist identity so fast?? use your mind...not use your islamophobia.... i'm free-thinker....i'm so sorry for incovenient
ps: sorry my english is not very good

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

ahsan haq uae — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 07:38:35 GMT

sir this vandicate us Pakistani that we are not all
stupid mullas we are also foward looking but then who writes about us.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

m.bugi willem van kessel straat 13 4827 L.J.breda holland — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 09:46:12 GMT

hi i was born in pakistan .from 1977 to 1989 i felt the brunt of what expression people had of our country helping the war against the soviets .
i am working since 1971 to preserve kalash now i live in holland with my two children so i wish you the best
i want to share my works with you just to say thankyou for making a pakistan gallery of good art

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Jawwad Haider, Bronxville, NY — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:44:23 GMT

We must appreciate the artistic talent, endurance and exuberance of Pasha. He has done great service in depicting the overwhelming liberal majority of Pakistanis. For those of Indian Hindu origin, Sunil, Vikram, Biplabh and the likes just tough luck fellows. But for the record let me inform those who wish to distort the history that Amanat Khan Shirazi was the calligrapher of Taj Mahal, his name occurs at the end of an inscription on one of the gates of the Taj. Poet Ghyasuddin had designed the verses on the tombstone, while Ismail Khan Afridi of Turkey was the dome maker. Muhammad Hanif was the superintendent of Masons. The designer of Taj Mahal was Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. Let us enjoy this excellent piece of art.

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

SH, Washington, DC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 18:51:36 GMT

Thank you!

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

bob — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:01:49 GMT

Unbeliveable....Just coz of few ultra modern so called "fredom" lover ppl, we can not face the world and hindus and westerners r taunting on us...
unfortunately, pakistan is alwasy highlighted by extremist(whether they r islamic extremist or "freedom" lover extremist)...majority is of moderate ppl but pakistan is representated by few extremists...
Anyway, this kind of nude art can not be tolerated in muslim country so close this nude art asap otherwise don't call pakistan a muslim country....

Yes, Pakistan’s new National Art Gallery has nudes

Muhammed — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 06:07:22 GMT

Wonderful article! I also thoroughly enjoyed most of the comments. However, what's with all the Indians (presumably Hindus) criticizing Pakistanis and Muslims in general? It has little to do with the article. There is enough hatred in this world - lets try and focus on the positive and our shared humanity.