BAHAWALPUR – The University College of Art and Design at the Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB), in collaboration with the Department of Islamic Learning, organized a spiritually uplifting Calligraphy and Painting Exhibition and Competition titled “Loh-o-Qalam” as part of the Ashra Rehmat-ul-Lil-Alameen celebrations. Held in honor of the birth anniversary of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the event highlighted the spiritual beauty and artistic richness of Islamic calligraphy. More than 200 students from the University College of Art and Design, along with participants from over ten educational institutions across Bahawalpur, displayed their artistic talents. Using diverse mediums such as ink, oil, acrylic paints, and markers on paper and canvases, students created intricate compositions that beautifully expressed the sanctity of Quranic verses and Islamic themes. The exhibition was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kamran, who praised the students’ artistic skills and devotion. The ceremony was attended by Prof. Dr. Syed Amir Sohail, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Languages; Prof. Dr. Sheikh Shafiq ur Rehman, Dean of the Faculty of Islamic and Arabic Studies; Prof. Dr. Rubina Bhatti, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences; Prof. Dr. Hafiz Shafiq ur Rehman, Director of the Seerat Chair; and Dr. Farhana Altaf Qureshi, Principal of the University College of Art and Design. The distinguished guests toured the exhibition and expressed appreciation for the creativity and spiritual depth demonstrated by the students. To honor the most outstanding contributions, the top ten students received cash prizes and certificates of appreciation, generously sponsored by Amjad Bukhari. Principal Dr. Farhana Altaf Qureshi commended the faculty for organizing a culturally significant and spiritually enriching event. She stressed the importance of promoting Islamic art and aesthetics in academic settings and presented calligraphic artworks as souvenirs to the chief guests. Both participants and attendees praised the students’ creative expression and acknowledged the University College of Art and Design for successfully organizing an event that beautifully merged faith, culture, and creativity in tribute to the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
‘Loh-o-Qalam’ calligraphy, painting exhibition held at IUB




