Arts Council Hosts Session on Bridging Academia and Art Industry

 By: Aziz Khatri

 Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi’s School of Visual & Performing Arts organized an engaging session titled “The Bridging of Academia & Industry” at Haseena Moin Hall, focusing on strengthening the relationship between academic learning and professional artistic practice.

President Arts Council Muhammad Ahmed Shah attended the session as a special guest. Renowned artist and curator R.M. Naeem, artist Sadaf Naeem, and educationist, author, curator, and artist Saulat Ajmal shared their insights, while the discussion was moderated by acclaimed artist Muhammad Zeeshan.

Speaking on the occasion, R.M. Naeem said that in many societies, being an artist is still viewed negatively, and this mindset needs to change. He emphasized that today’s children are tomorrow’s stars and called for creating pathways for their growth. He advised young artists to focus on their creative vision rather than merely selling their work, urging them not to turn themselves into products. He stressed the importance of broadening one’s thinking to grow any artistic venture and encouraged artists to seek guidance from curators without hesitation. He also praised Muhammad Ahmed Shah for keeping cultural activities at the Arts Council vibrant and continuous.

Artist Sadaf Naeem said that bringing teachers and students together through such sessions is a major achievement. She noted that the younger generation has access to numerous opportunities and should remain connected with their teachers to refine their work. She urged students to focus on personal growth rather than competition, adding that learning is an ongoing process.

Educationist and artist Saulat Ajmal described art as life itself and said that the journey of learning never ends. She emphasized the need to promote art and appreciated the role of mentors like R.M. Naeem and Muhammad Zeeshan in building a strong bridge between academia and the art industry.

The session concluded with participants expressing optimism about the future of art in Pakistan and reaffirming the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and continuous learning.