“Japan in Art” exhibition highlights Pakistan-Japan cultural ties at PNCA

A vibrant art exhibition titled “Japan in Art” opened at the National Art Gallery of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on Wednesday, celebrating the enduring cultural bonds between Pakistan and Japan through creative expression

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Mar, 2026) A vibrant art exhibition titled “Japan in Art” opened at the National Art Gallery of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on Wednesday, celebrating the enduring cultural bonds between Pakistan and Japan through creative expression.

Organized by the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan in collaboration with PNCA and the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Islamabad, the exhibition was inaugurated by Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Akamatsu Shuichi.

Director General PNCA Ayoub Jamali and noted artist Jamal Shah, President of PJCA Islamabad, were also present on the occasion.

The exhibition features around 40 artworks by emerging Pakistani artists, offering imaginative interpretations of Japanese socio-cultural life.

Using diverse techniques—including fine brushwork, colored pencils, and traditional woodblock-inspired styles—the artists present a unique fusion of creativity and cultural insight.

Speaking at the inauguration, Ambassador Akamatsu praised the talent and creativity of young Pakistani artists for their compelling portrayal of Japanese culture.

He said the exhibition reflects the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries, built not only on diplomatic relations but also on strong people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

On the occasion, the Ambassador also conferred the prestigious Ambassador’s Commendation for 2026 upon Jamal Shah in recognition of his significant contributions to promoting Pakistan-Japan cultural ties.

Paying tribute to his services, the Ambassador acknowledged Shah’s leadership in the arts and his longstanding efforts to strengthen bilateral relations. He highlighted Shah’s role as Director of the Pakistan Pavilion at Expo 2005 Aichi in Japan, his support for cultural initiatives during his tenure as Minister for Culture, and his recent exhibition “Remains of Ruins,” which depicted the devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Ambassador Akamatsu expressed confidence that Jamal Shah would continue to play a vital role in further enhancing cultural cooperation and promoting Japanese culture in Pakistan.