New Art Space Opens in Islamabad to Spotlight Young Talent
'The First Layer: Beginning of Becoming' exhibition brings together emerging artists from Pakistan's leading art institutions.
ISLAMABAD: A new chapter in Islamabad’s contemporary art landscape has begun with the inauguration of FMR Art Space, a dedicated venue aimed at promoting emerging and mid-career Pakistani artists through curated exhibitions and cultural dialogue.
The gallery officially opened its doors with its inaugural exhibition, “The First Layer: Beginning of Becoming,” featuring nearly 50 artworks by 20 artists from leading institutions including the National College of Arts (NCA), Beaconhouse National University (BNU), and COMSATS University Islamabad.
Curated by acclaimed miniature artist Dr. Farrah Mahmood Rana, the exhibition highlights a diverse range of artistic practices, reflecting the creative journeys of a new generation of Pakistani artists. The participating artists include Amna Hashmi, Arfeen Zaib, Daud, Hiba Iram, Khan Labeeb, Muhammad Junaid, Samreen Aqbal, Sameen Rehman, Sidra Ashraf, Shameen Amjad, Tahassum Shaheen, Ufaq Tabassum, Wajdan Tara, Zarin Gul and Zainab Mudassar, among others.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Farrah Mahmood Rana said the exhibition represents “the beginning of becoming,” describing it as an invitation to audiences to engage with the evolving creative processes and artistic identities of young Pakistani artists. She added that the initiative is intended to provide an inclusive platform where emerging talent can experiment, collaborate and build meaningful connections within the country’s art community.
The launch ceremony was attended by German Deputy Head of Mission Arne Freiherr von Kittlitz, members of the diplomatic community, artists, academics, collectors and cultural enthusiasts. The presence of international guests underscored growing global interest in Pakistan’s contemporary art scene and highlighted opportunities for future cultural collaboration between Pakistan and Germany.
With its inaugural exhibition, FMR Art Space aims to establish itself as a permanent cultural destination in Islamabad, supporting innovation, artistic excellence and dialogue while creating new opportunities for emerging creative voices.
