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Ahmed Ragab Sakr’s extensive educational and professional journey is marked by significant achievements and positions in the field of fine arts. He served as the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at El Minia University, holding this esteemed role from November 1, 2011, to March 11, 2015. During his career, he contributed as a Professor of Book Arts and an Associate Professor of Graphic Design, leaving a notable mark on the academic landscape. His expertise also led him to the role of Supervisor of the Department of Animation at the Faculty of Fine Arts at El Minia University, which he assumed on September 18, 2004.

His academic journey began as a Graduate Assistant in Graphic Art at the same institution on February 21, 1988, and he gradually progressed through the ranks, becoming a Lecturer on June 7, 1992. He received his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Graphic Arts with a focus on Book Arts from Helwan University in 1992, where his dissertation explored “Islamic manuscripts as an early phase of book arts.” Notably, he furthered his studies with a Ph.D. in Philosophy of Art with a specialization in Book Arts, conducting research on the “Contemporary Plastic Language of Book Arts through Islamic Art” at both Helwan University in Egypt and the University of Erfurt in Germany.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Ahmed Ragab Sakr conducted research on Lithography and Handmade Papermaking from 1996 to 1998 at the University of Erfurt in Germany. He also studied Sculpture at the Faculty of Fine Arts at Helwan University in 1984.

Ahmed Ragab Sakr’s illustrious career and dedication to the field of fine arts are evident in his academic achievements and the significant roles he has held throughout his professional journey.

Marlene’s diverse professional journey spans various continents and roles. She has worn multiple hats, including that of an artist, language teacher, kindergarten teacher, and lecturer in language teaching methodology. Her career has taken her from her home country, South Africa, to international schools in Sweden, Ukraine, Russia, China, and Thailand. Notably, she founded and managed her own art school for children in Bangkok, Thailand. This extensive global experience has given her a unique perspective on the concept of “harmony in diversity,” having worked with students and student teachers hailing from over 60 different nationalities.

Marlene’s art is a vibrant reflection of her background and influences. She draws from her African heritage, incorporating the rich colors and simplicity that characterize the culture, as well as her love for patterns and graphic design, inspired by Ndebele pattern-making and Scandinavian design. Her explorations in fabric printing and fabric art, particularly during visits to India, have further enriched her creative palette.

Marlene’s artistic journey has led to various exhibitions showcasing her work, from “Concrete to Canvas” in Bangkok, Thailand, to international events like the “China Fine Art Workshop and Exhibition” in Changzhou City. Her art resonates with the essence of her experiences, offering a captivating blend of cultural influences and artistic expression that continues to evolve.

Sasho Sazdovski (born in 1976) is a highly acclaimed sculptor and dedicated researcher hailing from the picturesque city of Skopje, Macedonia. His artistic journey has been a remarkable odyssey, marked by prestigious exhibitions and the display of his captivating sculptures in renowned museums and galleries across the globe. Sasho’s work has graced the hallowed halls of esteemed institutions such as the Center for Contemporary Art in Abu Dhabi, UAE, the Mark Rothko Art Center in Latvia, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Kalakshetra National Museum in India, the Al Asmakh Art Foundation in Doha, Qatar, the Center for Contemporary Art MECA in Almeria, Spain, and the 14th Biennale di Venezia di Architettura in Italy.

His artistic prowess extends to the creation of over 20 monumental public sculptures that adorn prominent locations in countries such as North Macedonia, Argentina, Oman, Qatar, Azerbaijan, UAE, Turkey, Montenegro, Latvia, Russia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Denmark, Portugal, and more. Sasho’s sculptures not only reflect his exceptional talent but also carry a profound message, often resonating with the essence of the cultures and communities they are placed within.

Beyond his incredible artistic achievements, Sasho Sazdovski has dedicated himself to the noble cause of education. Since 2012, he has been imparting his knowledge and passion for fine art as a teacher at Rade Jovchevski Korchagin in Skopje. Through his teaching, he has inspired and nurtured the artistic talents of many aspiring young artists, shaping the future of the art world.

Sasho’s work stands as a testament to the power of creativity to transcend borders and communicate across diverse cultures. His sculptures have become more than mere art; they are bridges connecting people through their shared appreciation of beauty and creativity. As he continues to create and educate, Sasho Sazdovski remains a distinguished figure in the world of sculpture and a beacon of inspiration for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

My name is Dhaneshwar Shah, and I was born in New Delhi, India. I completed my basic education, earning a BFA and MFA from the College of Art, New Delhi. I am a painter and installation artist, and my artistic journey began with a focus on painting and installation. My primary source of inspiration comes from tribal and folk art. In 2010, I was awarded the Chinese Government Scholarship for a two-year program, which led me to the China Academy of Art in Hangzhou, China. During my studies there, I conducted research on Experimental Art and Chinese Traditional Art, ultimately learning how to draw inspiration from tradition and provide a new direction to art through New Media Art.

Regarding my artwork and concept, I aim to create a laboratory of the mind where I experiment with emotions, expressions, and feelings. This process generates new thoughts and techniques, much like an atomic chain reaction, resulting in an endless flow of ideas and creativity. When I translate these experiments into visual form through lines, colors, and shapes, they give birth to unique artworks.

My work is heavily influenced by tribal and aboriginal art, as well as their philosophies, which I consider to be pure and authentic. These influences are evident in my art, manifested through dotted lines, bold outlines, vibrant and flat colors, humor, and the repetition of forms, all integrated with my personal artistic language and techniques.

In my paintings, you’ll discover small visual elements from my immediate surroundings, which I am intimately connected to. These elements serve as witnesses to specific moments and places, often making their way into my art, sometimes subconsciously and spontaneously. Through my artwork, I aspire to establish new senses, languages, possibilities, and dimensions within contemporary art.

EDUCATION

• Ph.D. in Fine Arts Studio Practice Research Centre, College of Art and Design, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan. (2013)
  Language: English
  Dissertation Title: Women image, an everlasting journey.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

• Himayat -E- Islam Khawateen College, Lahore – Pakistan: Lecturer, BA – MA Fine Arts Department (1997-2008).
• University of the Punjab, Lahore – Pakistan: Lecturer, University College of Art and Design, Lahore-Pakistan (2008 – 2013).
• University of the Punjab, Lahore – Pakistan: Assistant Professor, University College of Art and Design, Lahore-Pakistan (2013 – Present).
• NCA, Lahore – Pakistan: Course Tutor, National College of Arts, MA Visual Arts (2013 – Present)
• Lahore College for Women University: Supervisor MPhil and PhD, Visual Arts Department (2010 – Present)
• Sardar Khan Bahadur Women University: On line Visiting Faculty of MPhill Fine Arts. (2016-2018). Supervisor of 8 research scholars.

ADMINISTRATVE EXPERIENCE

• University of the Punjab, Lahore – Pakistan: HOD, Painting Department, University College of Art and Design, Lahore – Pakistan.  (2014)
• University of the Punjab, Lahore – Pakistan:Resource person for the Ph.D. program at Research Centre, College of Art and Design, Lahore – Pakistan (2015 – Present)
• Member Board of Studies, Lahore College Women University, Lahore
• Member Board of Studies, GCU, Faisalabad
• Member Board of Studies, Women University, Sialkot
• Member Board of Studies, Sargodha University, Sargodha

AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

• Gold Medal, MFA (Painting), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
• Gold Medal, BFA (Painting), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
• Scholarship of Merit from the University of the Punjab, Lahore-Pakistan.
• Scholarship of Merit from the University of the Punjab, Lahore-Pakistan.
• Young painters Award – Lahore Arts Council

MFA VISUAL ARTS THESIS SUPERVISED

• 2015                             13 Students
• 2016-2017                  25 Students
• 2017-2019                15 Students

RESEARCH PROJECT

Documentary film (12 minutes) shot in Derawar basti, Cholistan, Pakistan, titled
“Aesthetics of the sand” (2015).

MEMBER BOARD OF STUDIES

• Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University, Quetta
• Lahore College Women University, Lahore
•  Government College University, Faisalabad
• Government College Women University, Sialkot
• University of Sargodha, Sargodha
• GCWU, Bahawalpur

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

• University of the Punjab, Lahore – Pakistan: Curriculum Developer for Ph.D. and M.Phil. in Fine Arts, College of Art and Design, Lahore – Pakistan (2015 – Present)
• Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University, Quetta: Curriculum Developer for M.Phil. in Fine Arts Studio Practice. (2015 – Present)
• Lahore College Women University, Lahore: Curriculum Developer for PhD and M.Phil. in Fine Arts Studio Practice. (2010 – Present)
• Government College Women University, Sialkot: Curriculum Developer for PhD and M.Phil. in Fine Arts Studio Practice. (2015– Present)

MEMBERSHIP OF ACADEMIC AND LEARNED COMMITTEES

• Active member of THAAP (Thrust for History, Art and Architecture of Pakistan ) since 2011.

EXHIBITIONS

Each Solo Show is comprised of 30 art works.

In each Group Show minimum two art works of mine were displayed. According to the rules of Punjab University and HEC two art works are equivalent to one research publication, by that account I have equivalent of over 50 publications. I have participated in 50 major group shows in Pakistan, UK and Japan and have 8 solo shows to my credit on national and international level.

Solo Shows:

1. Solo show A short Film, IAF, Islamabad, Pakistan, Sir Syed Memorial Gallery
2. Solo Show at ArtScene Art Galleries, titled “Insinuation”, Karachi, 2016
3. Solo show at Nomad Art Gallery, titled “Koi kuccho kahay, mann laaga”, Islamabad 2010
4. Solo Show at Rugby Art Gallery, titled “Carpe diem’, UK, August, 2009
5. Solo Show at Chameleon Art Gallery, UK, July, 2009
6. Solo Show at Solihull Arts Complex, UK. June, 2009
7. Solo Show organized by Pakistani embassy, Birmingham, UK, August, 2009
8. Solo Show at Shakir Ali Museum (PNCA) , titled ‘Ishtar’, Lahore, Pakistan Oct, 2008
9. Solo Show at Nairang Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan, Oct, 2007
10. Solo Show at Minhas Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan, June, 2007
11. Solo Show at PURAF art gallery, Research Center, Punjab University, January, 2007

Group shows/Two person shows:

1. IAF, Islamabad, Group show, Consecrated Ponderings, November, 2019
2. International artists group show, Monastir, Tunisia, 2019
3. Faculty Group Show At Nomad Art Gallery, Islamabad, January, 2019
4. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2019.
5. Akćaabat, Trabzon. Artist workshop and group show. Turkey. 2018
6. Karbath ’01, The First Breeze, Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore 2018
7. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, February, 2018.
8. Resurgence, Lahore Binnale 01, Lahore 2018
9. “Synergy Art Group”, 3^rd International Exhibition, Paris, France 2018
10. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2017.
11. “Synergy Art Group”, 2nd International Exhibition, Akcaabat, Turkey 2017
12. “Configuration”, Group Show at Tanzara Art Gallery, Islamabad, September 2017
13. Group Show, UAE 2016
14. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2016.
15. Group Show at Coopra Art Gallery, Lahore, 2016
16. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2015.
17. Two person show at Ejaz Art Gallery, Lahore, June, 2015
18. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, Feburary, 2014.
19. Two person show at Nomad Art Gallery, Islamabad, October, 2014
20. Three person show at Nomad Art Gallery, Islamabad,   May, 2013
21. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2012.
22. Two person show at Nomad Art Gallery, Islamabad,   April, 2012
23. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2011.
24. Group Show, “International Women’s Day 2012” at Nomad Art Gallery, Islamabad, March 2012
25. Women Painters of Pakistan, National Art Gallery, 2010
26. Group Show at Shakir Ali Museum, 23^rd March, 2010
27. Group Show by Artist Association of Punjab, March, 2010.
28. Spring show at Vogue art Gallery, Lahore, Feb. 2010
29. Group Show of Research Scholar at Tollinton Market Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan, Dec. 2009
30. National Show of Paintings by AAP, Islamabad, Pakistan, May, 2009
31. Group show “Say no to violence against women”, Nomad Art Gallery, Islamabad, December, 2009
32. Traveling Show by AAP, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, March, 2009
33. Women Painters of Pakistan Show by AAP, Tollinton Market Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan, March, 2009
34. Group Show at Coopra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan Feb, 2009
35. Group Show at Anna Molka Art Gallery, UCAD, PU, Lahore, Pakistan Dec, 2008
36. Group Show at The Mirage Art Gallery, London, UK. May, 2008
37. Women Painters of Pakistan Show by AAP, Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan Aug. 2007
38. Group Show at Mihas Art Gallery, GCU, Lahore, Pakistan May, 2007
39. Group Show at Coopra  Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan March, 2007
40. Women Painters of “SARC” Hamial Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan March, 2007
41. ­National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
42. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2009
43. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2008
44. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2007­
45. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2006
46. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2005
47. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2004
48. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2003
49. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2002
50. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2001
51. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 2000
52. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1999
53. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1998
54. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1997
55. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1995
56. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1993
57. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1992
58. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1991
59. National Show of Paintings by Artist Association of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, 1990
60. Women Painters of Pakistan Show by AAP at Tollenten Market Art Gallery, Pakistan March, 2006
61. Group show at Research Center Gallery, PU Lahore, Pakistan May 29, 2006
62. Group show at Hamail Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan Sep 2006
63. Asian Art Now Exhibition Tokyo (Japan), Oct, 2006
64. Group Show ‘Painters of Pakistan’ by Artist Association of Punjab, Pakistan, March 2006
65. Group Show at Coopera Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan Sep, 2005
66. Group Show at Nairang Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan May 2004
67. Group Show at Nairang Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan 2003
68. Group Show at Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, May, Pakistan 1992
69. Young Painters of Pakistan at Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore Pakistan Sept, 1992
70. Young Painters Painting Competition at Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan May, 1989 (1^st Prize)
71. Young Painters Painting Competition at Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan May, 1989 (2^nd Prize)
72. Young Painters Painting Competition at Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan May, 1992 (1^st Prize)
73. Group Show at Creative Concepts, Pakistan 1987(1^st Prize)

PAINTING PROJECTS

• Restoration and preservation of paintings, Alhamra, Qaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
• A collection of paintings done for the Diyal Singh Research Forum.
• A collection of paintings for PC Hotel, Lahore
• A collection of paintings for Chief Minister House, Lahore
• A collection of paintings for Commissioner House, Lahore
• Numerous book titles and portraits
  
  

PUBLICATIONS

1. Research Paper in “The Historian”, Volume 16. Department of History, GC University, Lahore, Pakistan . “The Reciprocity of Gifts: A comparetive Study of PolatchVS Bartan Bhanji”. co-authored with Mohammad Asghar, Muhammad Arshad, Farwah Batool.
2.  
3. Research paper in Journal of the Punjab University Historical Society, University of the Punjab, Lahore.  “Feminist Discourse” co-authored with Dr. Muhammad Asghar
4. Research paper in Journal of the Punjab University Historical Society,Volume. 28.  University of the Punjab, Lahore.  “Female image and Pakistani Cenima”
5.  “Exploring narratives of nature and history from Bhutan through the eyes of an artist”, SAARC Art, September 2017, Issue No 4
6. Article published in THAAP publications, “Rise and fall of cinema on McLeod Road.”
7. Article published in The Nation, Sunday plus “Makli Hills”
8. Article published in “Tourism” International Scenario.
9. Article published in The Post, Eye Candy, Sunday Magazine “Image for Identity”
10. Article published in The Nation, Sunday Plus “MFA Degree Show”.
11. Article published in The Post, Eye Candy, “Art on Display”.
12. Article published in The Nation, Sunday Plus, “MA Thesis”
13. Article published in the Friday Times, “Ishq by Rahat Masood”**

PAPERS READ IN SEMINARS

1. “Influence of Western Art on Eastern Art”. Art Symposium at Kusadasi, Turkey. 2017
2. “Rise and fall of cinema on McLeod road” THAAP international conference (2011)
3. ‘’Sadequain’’, At Shakir Ali Museum. PNCA. lahore
4.  “We are Walsall”: Many Voices Event; organized by African Leadership and Reconciliation Ministries (ALARM). Walsall, West Midlands, UK 2009

ORGANIZED SEMINARS/CONFERENCES WORKSHOPS/SYMPOSIA /EXHIBITIONS

1. Organized and curated a grand show “ Consecrated Ponderings” of PU Graduates for IAF, Islamabad, Sir Syed Memorial Hall, Islamabad
2. Organized and curated a show of MFA Final Thesis Students at Grand Hall, February, 2019, CAD, PU
3. Organized and curated a show of MFA Thesis Students at Grand Hall, February, 2019, CAD, PU
4. Artist residency “Karbhat 02” by Dr. Sumera Jawad for PUCAD, Lahore. (2019)
5. Organized a Seminar “ Khalid Iqbal, The Marvel he was”, at Grang Hall, PUCAD, January, 2019
6. Curated a Show of sixteen Artists from Quetta, Balochistan, Tollinton Market Gallery, December, 2018, The Mall, Lahore
7. Artist residency “Karbhat 01” by Dr. Sumera Jawad for PUCAD, Lahore. (2018)
8. “Anna Molka Ahmed, A peerless pioneer” by Dr. Sumera Jawad at Grand Hall, PUCAD, Lahore. (2018)
9. “Acknowledge Her, Empower Her! ” by Dr. Sumera Jawad and Zarmena Aslam at Anna Molka Art Gallery, Lahore. (2018)
10. “MFA Thesis Show”, PUCAD, Lahore. (2017)
11. Curated “HOMAGE to SHAKIR ALI” at Shakir Ali Museum, Lahore. (23.12.2016)
12. “Art and Photography” by Sami Ur Rahman at Anna Molka Art Gallery, Lahore. (2015)
13. Workshop “Memorandum of Sultan Bahu” Lahore. (2015)
14. Workshop “Sufism” Alhamra Art Centre, Lahore. (2015)
15. Launch of the book “Masjid Wazir Khan Rediscoverd” by Mamoona Khan, Lahore. (2011)
16. Thesis show of MA students of PUCAD at Coopra Art Gallery, Lahore. 2011
17.  “A Tribute to Zubeda Javed”, PUCAD, Lahore. (2011)
18. “A Tribute to Dr. Shaukat Mehmood ‘Maxim’”, Lahore. (2010)
19. “Art and Photography” by Umair Ghani, Lahore. (2009)
20. “Conceptual Art” by Asim Akhtar, Lahore. (2009)

PARTICIPATED/ATTENDED SEMINARS/CONFERENCES WORKSHOPS/SYMPOSIA

1. Lectures on photography, “Through Colonial Lens”, Venue: Lahore Museum Auditorium
2. Artist Talk By

Mr. Ragu (a visual artist from Vancouver)

Venue: Lecture Hall, College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore

Dated: Monday, December 16, 2019.

• Artist Talk By

Mr. Muhammad Zohaib

On “Game Design as a career”

(Famous Game Designer)

Organized by: Syed Farjood Ailya Rizvi

Dated: December 6, 2019.

Venue: Lecture Hall, College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore

• Artist Talk By

Mr. Irfan Hassan

Venue: Lecture Hall, College of art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore.

Date: Tuesday January 08, 2019

• Talk and discussion by Syed Suleman Naqvi on “Sadeqain and his life as an artist”, January, 2019
• “International Akcaabat Art Workshop”, Trabzon, Turkey, August, 2018.
• Lahore Biennale 01, Artist Participation, Lahore. (2018)
• National Artists Convention, On Panel, PNCA, Islamabad. February (2018)
• “Synergy Art Group, Resun Sergisi”, group show, beladoso, Turkey. (2017)
• Artists’ workshop, Kusadasi, Turkey. (2017)
• Representing PUCAD at “Curriculum for Associate Degree (Equivalent to Bachelors) in Textile Design” discussion at PHEC Head Office on 14.12.2016.
• Speaker at “A Day to Honour Prof. Dr. Shaukat Mahmood” on 6.5.2011 at , University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore.
• A 3 day workshop on “Semester System” in March 2010, University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore. Prof. Dr. Anis A. Siddiqi, Head of Architecture Department.
• A Seminar on “MLA Style” on 1.1.2009 at the Research Centre, University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore. Dr. Shahida Manzoor, Coordinator, Ph.D. Programme, Research Centre, UCAD was the Speaker.
• A Seminar on “Some Forgotten & Endangered Crafts of Southern Punjab” on 26th November, 2008 at 11.00 a.m. in the Research Centre, University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore. Dr. Saif ur Rehman Dar, Ex-Director, Lahore Museum, Lahore was the guest speaker.
• A Seminar on “Research Methodology-II” on 17th November, 2008 at 11.00 a.m. in the Research Centre, University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore. Dr. Shahida Manzoor, Coordinator, Ph.D. Programme, Research Centre, UCAD, Punjab University was the speaker.
• A Seminar on “Research Methodology-I” on 12th November, 2008 at 11.00 a.m. in the Research Centre, University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore. Dr. Shahida Manzoor, Coordinator, Ph.D. Programme, Research Centre, UCAD, Punjab University was the speaker.
• A Seminar on “Form and Linearity in Painting” on 5.11. 2008 at 10.30 a.m. in the Research Centre of UCAD. An eminent international scholar Prof. Iqbal Hasan, Ex-Professor, Principal, Head of Academics, Advisor Academic Council, NCA Lahore was the guest speaker.
• An Exhibition of Paintings / Solo Show by Ms. Samina Zaheer, Doctoral Student, Research Centre, UCAD and inauguration ceremony of the PURAF Art Gallery on 23.6. 2008 at the Puraf Art Gallery of Research Centre, UCAD Punjab University, Allama Iqbal Campus, Lahore.
• A Seminar on “Curating Skills” on 14.4. 2008 in the Research Centre of UCAD. An eminent international scholar Dr. Barbara Schmitz from UK was the guest speaker.
• A Lecture on “How to write the Ph.D. Dissertation” on 5.12. 2007 at the Research Centre of UCAD. An eminent International scholar Prof. Dr. Barbara Smitz from USA was the guest speaker.
• A Seminar on “Art Criticism” on 31.5. 2007 in the Research Centre of UCAD. An eminent International scholar Dr. Masood Kohari from France was the guest speaker.
• A Seminar on “Transliteration Methods” on 30.4. 2007 in the Research Centre of UCAD. An eminent International scholar Dr. Shaukat Mahmood, HEC-Professor was the guest speaker.
• A lecture on “Art Criticism’ by Ms. Nilofur Farrukh, Editor of the International Magazine Nukta Art on 6.2.2007 in the Research Centre of UCAD, Punjab University, Lahore.
• A Seminar on “Research Methodology” on 27.12.2006 in the Senate Hall, University of the Punjab organized by the Ph.D. Research Section of the UCAD, Punjab University, Lahore. An eminent American scholar Dr. Filomena Critelli was the guest speaker.
• A lecture on “Mughal Artists in Lahore during the period of Akbar” delivered by Prof. Dr. Barbara Schmitz, Ph.D. USA at the Exhibition Hall of Ph.D. Section of the University College of Art & Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore on 15.11.2006.
• An International one day seminar on “Historical perspective of Lahore as a Centre of Arts” organized by the Ph.D. Research Section of the University College of Art &Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore at the Senate Hall Punjab University on 10.10.2006.
• One day seminar on “Is Criticism always Genuine” at the Ph.D. Research Section of the University College of Art &Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore on 4.9.2006.
• One day seminar on “Aesthetics in Art” at the Ph.D. Research Section of the University College of Art &Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore on 4.8.2006.
• One day seminar on “Research Methods” at the Ph.D. Research Section of the University College of Art &Design, University of the Punjab, Lahore on 19.7.2006

SKILL SET

A seasoned professional practicing artist and a teacher with over 18 years of teaching experience of undergraduates, graduate students and post graduates. Teaching skills are to make the recipient of the knowledge become independent thinkers and thus propagate individuality and creativity to its full potential. 

PROFILE SUMMARY/STATEMENTS

Dr. Sumera Jawad was born in Pakistan. A seasoned academic of Studio Practice in fine arts at University of The Punjab, Lahore – Pakistan, as well as a practicing artist with multiple solo and group shows to her credit. She is held in high regards by both the academia for her teaching skills and knowledge as well as the professionals in her chosen field of practice. She has been a chief guest and a judge at numerous events and competitions throughout Pakistan. She is very hands on in studio practice, conduction workshops to share her valuable knowledge with upcoming professionals and students of fine arts. She stays abreast of all concepts by attending residencies and workshops herself, considering herself a lifetime student of the Arts.

Through her work, Sumera explores the concepts of identity and the Self, using the female form as her preferred medium. According to Sumera, who holds a Ph.D. in fine arts, the level of multiculturalism and diversity to which many of us are exposed to these days has the potential to cause the discord, displacement, and division of the Self. 

As a result, as Sumera posits, ‘Ideas and ideals are mingled and morphed; metaphors are understood and misunderstood according to context and audience; cultures cross and clash. All the while, the authentic Self – if there is one – is via distortion, alteration, and compromise, made and unmade, struggling for accessibility to popular culture’. 

Accordingly, Sumera strives to determine who we are as individuals, and how we came to end up in our current predicament. Using emotionally-charged colours, Sumera intentionally provides a contrast to the melancholic narratives, which are intended to ‘create alienation among audiences’. As well, the relatively large sizes of her works are meant to engage her viewers, and ultimately, by combining the emotional elements of her work with their own ‘biases’, Sumera’s audiences are able to experience something totally unique. 

Sumera currently resides in Lahore, where she works as an artist and a full-time Academic, and exhibits her work. In addition to Pakistan, Sumera’s work has been received with great enthusiasm elsewhere around the world in Europe, Far East and the Middle East.

He hails from Kampung Kumpulan, Langkawi. He was not born into an artistic family, but his passion for this field started back when he was in school. During his university years, his painting activities were momentarily paused to focus on his studies. After completing his education, he rediscovered his love for painting.

Starting in 2001, he became an artist-in-residence at Tanjung Rhu Resort Langkawi, where he provided interactive batik painting services to every hotel guest. However, in 2020, he made the decision to quit his job and pursue art as a full-time painter. In addition to batik, he also possesses skills in performance art, carving, and mural painting.

He actively engages in community programs, participating in various art events. Among the memorable moments, he was the champion in wood carving competitions in 2009 and 2010, organized by the Malaysian Timber Industry Board, and won the grand prize in the waste material design contest in 2013 at the Frangipani Resort Langkawi.

Currently, he holds the position of Yang DiPertua (President) for  LAVAA (Langkawi Artist Visual Art Association), which he has been a part of since 2009. Throughout his time with LAVAA, he has been able to share his knowledge, experiences, ups, and downs with fellow members

An art teacher in Kedawang Secondary School with more than 23 years of experience in delivering visual art education; expertise in drawing, painting, sculpture,print making and in performing art such as theatre and traditional dance.

A member of LAVAA (Langkawi Artist Visual Art Association). I have been participating in various art exhibitions in Perlis, Kedah and Kuala Lumpur since 1994 and have been conducting stage play for the past 10 years.

My passion is to educate and increase the community’s environmental awareness, to bring people closer to nature and also to inspire students and the local community to use art as a way to appreciate nature and preserve the natural world from its anthropogenic afflictions.

I have a great interest in the Langkawi Geoforest and manage to seek inspiration by focusing on the geographical and geological features in my artwork. In this hyper reality digital era we tend to forget how connected we are to nature.We are the nature. If we lost our way to nature then we have lost our way to find ourselves.

I hope my artwork can inspire people to renew or spark a new our connection with nature.

After retiring from government service as Land Commissioner in 2012, Wahab refocuses on his true passion as an artist and painter. He draws inspiration for his art from his many travels and enjoys venturing off the beaten track. A passionate abstract artist, he prolifically produced artwork, a minimum one artwork daily of various sizes. His deep and vast knowledge of land subjects has moved him to produce artworks with a strong resemblance to earth, land, forest, and anything that is closely knitted to earth. He loves reading and history is the subject that he loves most. Hence the subject of land combined with the essence of history has brought him busy producing a series of artworks on previous empires who used to rule the land of Borneo. He is an interesting person to engage with hence a cup of black coffee can never be enough to talk with him from dawn to sunset.

Nor Rasidah Dijai, known to the world as Nora, is a Malaysian artist whose vibrant creations have captivated audiences across generations. Born in the picturesque town of Kuala Langat, Selangor, Nora’s artistic journey has been one of ceaseless exploration and profound expression.

Nora’s artistic voyage commenced at the prestigious University Sains Malaysia (USM), where she honed her skills and passion for Fine Art. It was during her time at USM that she began to unravel the depths of her creative potential, laying the foundation for her future artistic endeavors.

In 1979, Nora embarked on a significant chapter of her life by becoming a lifetime member of Angkatan Pelukis SeMalaysia, an esteemed association of artists in Malaysia. This affiliation not only provided her with a platform to showcase her work but also allowed her to connect with fellow artists, fostering an environment of mutual inspiration and growth.

She was born in Penang. Raised in Alor Setar, Kedah, she is married and resides on Langkawi Island. She has a strong interest in the field of art and in 1989, pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Painting and Design at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM). She began her career as a batik artist when she took on part-time work for several companies and agencies on Langkawi Island that produced batik art for the global market. For the past few years, she has been working independently without affiliations to continue her career as a batik artist. Currently, she prefers working with batik materials and techniques.

Her batik workshop is deliberately constructed in an open manner, without walls blocking the view, so she can take inspiration from the surrounding natural environment. The artworks and decorative colors she creates reflect her own style and the natural world.

She has been a member of LAVAA (Langkawi Artist Visual Art Association) since 2014. Being part of this association has allowed her to gain knowledge and experiences by interacting with many talented artists.
Through her batik art, her hope is to raise awareness among the public about Langkawi’s batik style in her own unique way, so that everyone can come to appreciate it.