Islamabad: The Nomad Craft Festival brought together master artisans, designers and craft enthusiasts from across the country, offering a unique platform to showcase indigenous art and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Organisers said the event, organised by the Serena Hotels in collaboration with Nomad Art Gallery under the Cultural Diplomacy initiative, was a vibrant celebration of Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage, craftsmanship and artistic excellence.
They said the collaboration, rooted in a shared vision, aimed to highlight and empower women, honour the indigenous art and artisans of Pakistan and support communities through skills and creativity in arts and crafts.
The festival featured an exquisite collection of handcrafted textiles, shawls, gifts, natural foods, ceramics, home ware, jewellery, apparel and inspiring artworks. These creations represent the rich cultural tapestry of Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, making them ideal for both personal collections and meaningful gifts.
In the festival, special emphasis is placed on highlighting the traditions of the Saami tribe of Sindh, showcasing their unique cultural expressions and artisanal expertise and reinforcing the importance of preserving indigenous heritage.
Founder of Nomad Art Gallery Nageen Hayat said that the festival celebrated Pakistan’s cultural diversity while creating meaningful opportunities for artisans, particularly women, to connect their creativity with wider audiences and sustain their craft.
As the guest of honour, Ambassador of Ireland to Pakistan Mary O’Neil praised the initiative for promoting indigenous crafts and empowering local communities. She emphasised the role of cultural platforms in building mutual understanding and appreciation.
The organisers said the Craft Festival promised an immersive cultural experience, developing appreciation for the country’s rich traditions while supporting the talented artisans who keep these legacies alive.
