Rabia Zakir, a Pakistani artist, became the first international painter as she has been given the honor to have a solo display in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, this week on International Women’s Day
The portraits of Arab leaders painted by Rabia Zakir are quite famous. She has painted portraits of the Saudi crown prince and personalities of the royal families of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.
Moreover, her paintings and landscapes can be seen in 50 Pakistani embassies, most of which are from Arab countries like the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman.
While speaking to media persons, Rabia Zakir said that she has experienced a great shift in arts and culture in Saudi Arabia. She said that this was mainly because of the concern shown by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman under his ‘Vision 2030’.
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Zakir claimed that she had witnessed a “clear change” in the arts and culture scene in Saudi Arabia. Her solo exhibition which she termed a “journey of faith,” was a symbol of the changing times.
Rejoicing her precious moment, Rabia Zahir said, “I am feeling very proud to become the first female artist from outside Saudi Arabia to present her work in the holy city of Madinah.”
“I don’t have words to explain my happiness,” she added.
As per Rabia Zakir, the portraits of Saudi notables and paintings depicting Islamic holy sites are among the works on display.
Furthermore, the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts approached the artist about six months ago when officials recognized her remarkable work on social media.
Rabia Zakir’s art exhibition had a total of 27 paintings.
In addition, the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts has bestowed Zakir with an award for “strengthening Pak-Saudi ties” and will be conducting a training workshop for young artists.
