In a significant move to bridge traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art education, a delegation from the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers & Exporters Association (PCMEA) visited the National College of Arts (NCA). The delegation, including Usman Ashraf, Senior Vice Chairman of PCMEA, and Mr Shahid Hassan Sheikh, a PCMEA member and former President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), met with NCA’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Dr Murtaza Jafri, to discuss potential collaborative efforts.

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The meeting centered on the rich heritage of carpet making in Pakistan, highlighting its historical significance and the need for its preservation. The discussion underscored the potential for synergizing traditional carpet craftsmanship with modern design techniques taught at NCA.

“We are committed to preserving our cultural heritage while innovating for the future,” said Usman Ashraf. “Our collaboration with NCA aims to not only uphold the traditions of carpet making but also to infuse them with contemporary artistic approaches.”

Prof Dr Murtaza Jafri expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This collaboration offers a unique opportunity for our students to engage with traditional artisans and learn from their invaluable skills. It also provides a platform to explore new design horizons within the carpet industry.”

Both parties emphasized the importance of supporting less privileged communities through this craft. They acknowledged the significant economic contribution of these artisans and explored ways to enhance their livelihoods through improved design and marketing strategies.

The meeting concluded with a shared vision of advancing Pakistan’s carpet industry. Plans for joint initiatives and projects were discussed, aiming to revolutionize the industry by combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design education. This partnership is poised to bring about a resurgence in the cultural and economic impact of Pakistan’s carpet industry.

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