For the love of Art, this is a must go place if you are in Islamabad, frequently PNCA is organizing Art exhibition and other art related events -
The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) was setup to spearhead the development of arts in Pakistan. Its aims to build a robust arts ecosystem by creating an environment conducive to the flourishing of the arts, where the arts are accessible to everyone and artists and art groups have the commitment, financial support and resource and to excel at home, and on the world stage.
A holistic and integrated cluster development approach was initiated to develop the arts ecosystem. Dedicated teams were established to champion the performing, visual and literary art forms. These team works on the entire value chain from seeding arts start-ups, grooming talents, developing arts groups and arts businesses, to internationalization. This total approach allows each art form to blossom independently with its own focus on specific areas of opportunity, and cultivate new areas for long-terms growth and sustainability.
The Council is structured into two major divisions: Visual Arts Division and Performing Arts Division. Its focuses on four key strategic thrusts: Nurturing and developing the arts; Stimulating broader and sophisticated demand by audience; Developing capacity and resources; and Facilitating internationalization and enhancing global connectivity.
In developing artistic talent, The Council provides total support through grants, training, arts housing, commissioning of work and overseas touring. Major festivals and arts shows are organized to showcase the best of local and international artists. New talents are identified and developed through music and writing competition. Annual awards are given to artists in recognition of their achievements and to patterns for arts sponsorship.
To build new audience and broaden arts participation, the Council engages the wider community in the arts through outreach programmes targeted at different sectors of the population. It also endorses arts education programmes for artists and...
Read moreThe Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) is a premier institution established in 1973 with the mandate to promote and develop the arts in Pakistan. Operating under the National Heritage and Culture Division, PNCA serves as the apex cultural body at the national level.
Divisions and Functions:
Performing Arts: PNCA's Performing Arts Division is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of intangible cultural heritage. It organizes various shows and programs representing provincial and regional cultures, including dance, music, and drama.
Visual Arts: The Visual Arts Division focuses on the development and promotion of visual arts in Pakistan. It operates the National Art Gallery, showcasing works from both established and emerging artists, and hosts exhibitions to promote artistic talent.
National Puppet Theatre: Established in 1975, the National Puppet Theatre aims to revive and promote the traditional art of puppetry. It conducts performances to entertain and educate audiences, particularly children, about cultural heritage and social issues.
Location and Contact Information:
PNCA is located in Sector F-5/1, Islamabad, Pakistan. For more information about their programs, events, and initiatives, you can visit their official website:
Recent Activities:
PNCA regularly hosts a variety of cultural events, exhibitions, and performances. For instance, an exhibition was held from February 24th to 28th, 2025, aiming to showcase diverse art forms and promote cultural heritage. Additionally, PNCA has resumed its music classes, attracting many students interested in enhancing their musical skills.
For the latest updates on events and activities, you can follow PNCA on their official Facebook page:
In summary, the Pakistan National Council of the Arts plays a pivotal role in nurturing and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan through its diverse programs and initiatives in...
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Pakistan National Council of Arts is a heaven for art lover. For an artists it would be a dream place to visit. Whole building, excluding the theater side, is decorated with master piece of paintings. The mind-blowing artworks of Sadequain, Abdur Rahman, Jamil Naqash, Mansoor Rahi, Elahi Baksh Mattee, Azeem Iqbal, Tayyaba Aziz, Ustad Allah Ditta and many others. It has quite peaceful and calm ambience. It further add up to the exotic and mysterious aura of the place. In art gallery, you can’t take pictures. As a guide is always with you. So it’s better to do not dodge them. There are hundreds and thousands of paintings displayed in these galleries. In a Puppet Theater, several shows are hosted. Usually puppet shows are hosted on special occasions like Earthquake Victims Day, Kashmir Solidarity Day, Pakistan Day Celebrations, and Independence Day Celebrations. Further, performingart division is another attractive part of PNCE. Several theater plays, program and shows are organized here. National Music Festival and other such events on special days are organized here. It also host exhibitions. International painters also put on their piece of art work in these exhibitions. PNCA actually reflects our heritage and cultural aspects in really attractive manner. Ideal for educational trips and for your...
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