Islamabad, The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) proudly showcased an enlightening artist talk featuring esteemed artists Geytee Ara, Sidra Ashraf, and Akhtar Iqbal. This special event served as a continuation of the groundbreaking exhibition, “Off-Grid Goes On-Grid,” which mesmerized audiences with its profound exploration of the intersection between humanity and nature through artistic expression.Initiated by the acclaimed art educationist, Ms. Geytee Ara, the “Off-Grid Goes On-Grid” exhibition represented a transformative culmination of the Offgrid residency program. Ms. Ara’s visionary leadership fostered an exceptional platform for artists to bridge the realms of nature and human experience, elevating artistic expressions beyond the superficial.During the artist talk, Sidra Ashraf, Geytee Ara, and Akhtar Iqbal captivated attendees with in-depth explanations of their art practices. Each artist provided unique insights into their creative processes, inspirations, and the profound philosophies that shaped the thought-provoking artworks on display.Ms. Geytee Ara’s remarkable journeyAfter dedicating over three decades to teaching, encompassing various educational levels, Ms. Geytee Ara found herself at a unique juncture upon retirement. Embracing the gift of ‘ME time,’ she reignited her artistic passion, initially delving into ceramics. However, she soon found painting to be a more accessible avenue for unfiltered self-expression—a sanctuary where emotions flowed freely onto the canvas.Her unconventional compositions, characterized by bold palettes and expressive strokes, eschew realism. Instead, they serve as reflections of how her surroundings resonate within her—a mosaic of images and metaphors, forming a larger narrative that delves into the evolving relationship between humanity and the natural world.Artistic Empowerment: Sidra Ashraf’s Vision in Fostering Creative InquirySidra Ashraf is a dynamic and passionate artist whose teaching philosophy revolves around fostering student-led learning environments. Her approach places a strong emphasis on nurturing discussions and debates, aiming to empower students by encouraging them to question and explore novel concepts. She firmly believes that by granting students the freedom to inquire, they can evolve into innovative and confident individuals prepared to shape the future.In her artistic pursuits, Sidra’s work embodies a fusion of creativity, technical prowess, and a profound understanding of cultural nuances. Her dedication to education, coupled with a diverse range of professional experiences, serves as a continued source of inspiration for both her students and the broader artistic community.Crafting Creativity: Akhtar’s Journey of Artistic EvolutionAkhtar holds a Fine Arts degree from Hunerkada Islamabad, offering a strong foundation in diverse artistic techniques and art history. With over 6.5 years of experience in Art and Design, they’ve taught Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture across various settings.Known for tailored lesson plans and mentoring aspiring artists, Akhtar advocates for inclusive and innovative learning environments. Their teaching blends traditional and contemporary methods, covering mediums from pencil and watercolors to sculpting in clay, metal, and wood.Driven by a deep passion for creativity, Akhtar continues evolving artistically while nurturing the next generation of artists.Participants were immersed in an exploration of the artists’ perspectives as they intricately detailed their artistic journeys, methodologies, and the significant relevance of their work in relation to broader themes of humanity and the natural world.The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), known for its dedication to preserving and promoting Pakistan’s rich artistic heritage, remains committed to nurturing artistic brilliance and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Serving as a thriving center for creativity and innovation in the country, PNCA continually pushes the boundaries of artistic expression and collaboration.The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) stands as a premier cultural institution dedicated to promoting and preserving Pakistan’s diverse artistic heritage. With an unwavering commitment to fostering artistic excellence and cross-cultural understanding, PNCA serves as a vibrant hub for creativity and innovation in the country.