Punjab University by Anna Molka AhmedLahore Museum
Anna Molka Ahmed (1917-1994) is said to have pioneered the field of fine arts in Pakistan and was widely recognized for doing so by the Pakistani Government.
In 1963 she was awarded the 'Tamgha-i-Imtiaz' (Medal of Excellence) by the Government of Pakistan, as well as the Pride of Performance Award in 1979 by the President of Pakistan for her services in the field of fine arts education.
Punjab University by Anna Molka AhmedLahore Museum
However, before Molka moved to Punjab with her husband and fellow artist Sheikh Ahmed, she grew up in London and gained a scholarship to study at the Royal College of Art.
This oil painting titled 'Punjab University' depicts the Department of Fine Arts at the university in Lahore, Pakistan, which Molka established in 1940.
Punjab University by Anna Molka AhmedLahore Museum
After responding to an advertisement to open a Fine Arts Department at Punjab University, Molka became the first art teacher at the university (despite initial restrictions banning sculpture and only allowing women onto the course).
Molka was one of the first art teachers in Pakistan to take her students outside to paint. This work shows her interest in creating work in direct response to the surroundings.
Punjab University by Anna Molka AhmedLahore Museum
Zooming into the work, you can see Molka's use of the palette knife, which reflects her dynamic personality and captures the energy and movement of the outdoor scene.
Molka worked with a collection of palette knives and her hands, and would squeeze paint straight from the tube and mix it on the canvas.
Punjab University by Anna Molka AhmedLahore Museum
While at Punjab University, Molka also created annual art exhibitions and brochures, which were the first documented exhibitions in Pakistan.
This work not only shows the place where Molka started her inspiring career as an art teacher in Pakistan but also displays her talent as an artist in her own right.
Punjab University by Anna Molka AhmedLahore Museum
Move and zoom around 'Punjab University'.
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