Celebrating Craft and Creativity: Serena Hotels and Nomad Gallery Host Two-Day Festival
Serena Hotels, in collaboration with Nomad Art Gallery, inaugurated a two-day Crafts Festival today under its Cultural Diplomacy initiative. The festival celebrates Pakistan’s vibrant artistic heritage while highlighting the powerful role of women in preserving culture and driving community-level economic empowerment.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by H.E. Andrea Wicke, the Ambassador of Austria to Pakistan, who served as the Chief Guest. In her keynote address, she emphasized the significance of cultural initiatives that promote inclusivity and create economic opportunities for women.
“Empowering women through creative expression and entrepreneurship not only helps preserve cultural traditions but also contributes meaningfully to sustainable development,” she said. “It is inspiring to see platforms like this celebrating the creativity and resilience of Pakistan’s women artisans.”
Nageen Hayat, Founder and Director of Nomad Gallery said, “Art is a bridge connecting communities, telling stories, and transforming lives. Through this festival, we are not only showcasing heritage but also amplifying the voices of women who are shaping the future of craft and culture in Pakistan.”
The craft Festival will continue until 2nd June 2025, bringing together artisans and women entrepreneurs from across Pakistan including Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Exhibits range from handcrafted jewelry and textiles to ceramics and contemporary art, reflecting Pakistan’s diverse design traditions and regional craftsmanship.
A special highlight of the first day was a presentation by Nabahat Lotia, who shared her research and passion for Pakistan’s rich pottery traditions, culminating in the launch of her book on the subject. Her insights offered attendees a deeper appreciation of the role pottery plays in Pakistan’s artistic and cultural history.
The festival will conclude tomorrow with a special presentation by Samina Ali Akhtar, a distinguished visual artist, who will speak about her personal journey in the world of visual arts exploring creativity, resilience, and the evolving space for women artists in Pakistan.
This crafts festival is part of Serena Hotels’ broader Cultural Diplomacy and Corporate Social Responsibility programs, which aim to promote sustainable tourism, celebrate cultural diversity, and support local communities. By offering artisans national visibility and networking opportunities, Serena Hotels continues to be a catalyst for inclusive development and cultural preservation in the region.
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