Celebrating a decade of art and activism, Phenomena by Pomme marked its 10th anniversary with a powerful group exhibition titled ‘Zenana-Mardana’ at the historic Frere Hall Sadequain Gallery in Karachi. Curated by Pomme Amina Afzal in partnership with the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Culture Department, the show paid homage to pioneering masters of Pakistan’s modern art movement while reflecting on evolving gender identities.
The exhibition opened with a grand tribute to artistic legends Ismail Gulgee, Sadequain, and Jamil Naqsh, setting the tone for a dialogue between classical mastery and contemporary themes. The central focus of the show — “Zenana-Mardana” — explores the changing perceptions of gender dynamics in South Asian society.
The roster of participating artists included celebrated names such as Amin Gulgee, Abdul Jabbar Gul, RM Naeem, Imran Qureshi, Mehr Afroze, Sanki King, Sayeda M. Habib, Xandria Noir, Nazia Ejaz, Nahid Reza, and Affan Baghpati. Their work delves into the nuanced intersections of masculinity, femininity, and cultural symbolism, highlighting how these identities blend and evolve over time.
As explained by Pomme Amina Afzal, art functions as one of the most potent cultural tools — telling stories, challenging perceptions, and fostering societal reflection. The “Zenana-Mardana” concept underscores the merging and coexistence of traditionally gendered roles, encouraging the audience to reflect on the shifting paradigms of identity, role models, and societal expectations.
Published on: February 22, 2022
Original Source: ‘Zenana-Mardana’ a tribute to masters – The Express Tribune