Interview / Mosiki
Art in a crisis; meditations in an emergency
What is the relevance of art in times of social crises? It’s a question that crops up often in difficult times, and the present moment is no different. Several art fundraisers were introduced globally with the purpose of raising capital for those affected by the pandemic. One such fundraiser was created in Pakistan called ‘Prints for Pandemic Relief’ (PfPRP). It is an independent online print sale mobilising art for aid towards all those affected by COVID-19 in Pakistan. It functions as a bottom-top initiative that has partnered with six grassroots activists and initiatives who will receive all the proceeds from the fundraiser, and use them towards the vulnerable communities in Pakistan.
All artworks found @printsforpandemicrelief
“PfPRP’s impact on Pakistani society is multi-layered. It doesn’t only reflect and engage with the pandemic-struggles for marginalised communities, but is leaving long-term impressions on how we understand philanthropy, art, and their relationship.”
"On one side, behind barbed wire, stood together the lunatics of India and on the other side, behind more barbed wire, stood the lunatics of Pakistan."
Review / Mosiki
The Kartarpur border opening gives us a glimpse into the inimical side of Partition
The prospect of independence by the Indian Partition 1947 has at times over-shadowed similarities amongst people. The prospect – although coloured with excitement by new leaders in both, new states, and new structures – leaves out not only the honest brutality of partition, but how the dawn of independence blurred identities for people. Now might be the time to bring back Saadat Hassan Manto’s short story, ‘Toba Tek Singh’ (1955).