Islamabad:
The Galerie 6 Islamabad has opened a call to young artists from all over Pakistan to participate in the 6th edition of the Prix de la Painting Arjumand (APA), a national biennial competition which recognizes and supports young painters.
Created in 2015, APA is the first price of art of the genus established by a private gallery in Pakistan, offering prices in substantial cash and national visibility. The prize aims to celebrate originality and excellence in painting among young Pakistani artists. Four cash prices were announced with 400,000 rupees allocated for the first price, RS300,000 for the second price, RS200,000 for the third price and a merit price worth 50,000 rupees. In addition to the money price, selected participants can also be offered artistic residences, exhibitions and promotional opportunities in Pakistan and abroad.
All artists aged 20 to 45, living in Pakistan, can apply. Each applicant can submit a painting, completed in 2024 or 2025. The works that are produced digitally or mechanically, or only drawings are not eligible. The deadline for submitting painting images by e-mail is September 26, 2025. The details and the submission forms are available on the gallery 6 Facebook and Instagram pages.
Arjumand’s price of painting has regularly increased in stature since its creation. Previous editions have attracted a large participation from across the country and played an important role in the launch of the career of many young artists. The price is widely considered as a credible and transparent platform to identify and promote emerging talents.
The artist and educator RM Naeem noted: “Gallery 6 is a major player in the artistic landscape of Pakistan. The institution of APA is a laudable stage towards the recognition and development of Pakistani art, judged by a highly renowned jury.” The art critic Aasim Akhtar described the prize as “a promising event which not only guides young artists but gives them respect and encouragement to continue their practice”.
The artist and former professor at the University of Karachi, Durriya Kazi, stressed the importance of the prize to provide support for artists sailing in a world in rapid globalization.
This year, to further improve the scope of the Prix de la Painting Arjumand, he is supported by three collaboration partners, Nighat Ali, an artistic boss of Lahore, of the Ercelawn art fund, established in memory of the economist and activist Aly Aly Arycelawn and Millat Tractors Limited. The organizers encourage generalized participation, both artists based in cities and regions outside the established art centers of Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. The price continues to provide a unique opportunity to self -taught and officially trained artists to acquire national recognition.
