Islamabad:
Gallery 6 Islamabad has opened a call for young artists from all over Pakistan to participate in the 6th edition of the Arjumand Painting Award (APA), a national two -year competition that recognizes and supports young painters.
The APA was established in 2015 and is the first art award of its kind introduced by a private gallery in Pakistan offering significant cash prizes and national visibility. The award aims to celebrate originality and expertise in painting among young Pakistani artists. Four cash prizes have been announced with RS400,000 awarded for first prize, RS300,000 at second price, RS200,000 at the third prize and a credit price worth RS50,000. In addition to prize money, selected participants can also be offered art housing, exhibitions and promotional opportunities both in Pakistan and abroad.
All artists aged 20 to 45 who reside in Pakistan are entitled to apply. Each applicant may submit a painting completed in 2024 or 2025. Works that are digitally or mechanically produced or only drawings are not eligible. The deadline for submitting paints via E -Mail is September 26, 2025. Details and submission forms are available on Gallery 6 Facebook and Instagram pages.
The Arjumand Painting Award has steadily grown in stature since its inception. Previous editions have attracted broad participation from all over the country and have played a significant role in launching careers for many young artists. The price is widely considered a credible and transparent platform to identify and promote new talent.
Artist and teacher RM Naeem noted, “Gallery 6 is an important player in the art landscape of Pakistan. APA’s institution is a commendable step towards recognizing and nurturing Pakistani art, judged by a very reputable jury.” Art critic Aasim Akhtar described the award as “a promising event that not only guides young artists but gives them respect and encouragement to continue their practice.”
Artist and former professor at the University of Karachi, Durriya Kazi, emphasized the importance of the award to provide support to artists navigating in a fast globalizing world.
This year to further improve the scope of the Arjumand Painting Award, it is supported by three partners, Nighat Ali, an art cartridge from Lahore, Ercelawn Art Fund, which was created in memory of the late economist and activist Aly Alp Ercelawn and Millat Tractors Limited. The organizers encourage widespread participation, both from artists based in cities and regions outside the established artists in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. The award continues to give a unique opportunity for self -taught and formally trained artists to gain national recognition.
