Jamshoro: In an inspiring initiative to reconnect with the region’s rich artistic traditions, Shaheed
Allah Buksh Soomro (SABS) University of Art, Design and Heritages, Jamshoro hosted a two-days
seminar and workshop titled “Echos of the Past: Reviving Cultural Heritage Through Ceramic Art”.
The event was led by Ghaffar Mohiudin, a PhD scholar at the University of Granada, Spain, and
Assistant Professor at the University of Gujrat, Punjab. The workshop was coordinated by faculty
member Muhammad Hassan Kashigar.
The workshop aimed to bridge Islamic art and architecture with contemporary ceramic practices,
emphasizing the embodiment of heritage in modern sculpture.
The program commenced with an interactive session, introducing participants to the workshop’s
agenda and engaging them in an enriching dialogue about traditional art practices, specifically
focusing on Kashigari, the ancient tile art deeply rooted in the region's history.
Participants received a detailed overview of traditional materials, their significance in heritage crafts,
and their modern-day relevance. The sessions included live demonstrations of engobe application on
greenware terracotta tiles and the classic Kashi technique on top of tiles. Each participant created a
6"x6" tile, learning through hands-on practice and guided instruction.
Workshop highlights included: Pattern making using provided handouts, Design and sketching of
unique Islamic-inspired motifs, Transfer of designs to terracotta bisque tiles, Surface treatment
demonstrations, including skim milk smoke firing (open smoke fire) and gold leaf application and
finally Practical firing sessions, allowing participants to experience traditional methods first-hand.
The final segment featured a display of participants' finished ceramic tiles and a reflective discussion
on the cultural and spiritual connections fostered through the creative process.
Prof. Ghafar Mohiudin emphasized the importance of such initiatives: “Art is a language of memory.
Through ceramics, we not only preserve Islamic Art but give it new life in contemporary forms.”
This event marked a significant step in cultural revival efforts, blending academic insight with
artistic practice to celebrate and sustain Pakistan’s rich ceramic heritage.
At the end of the workshop, Professor Ghaffar Mohiuddin met with the Vice Chancellor of the
University, Prof. Dr. Arabella Bhutto and appreciated the efforts of SABS University in promoting
the ceramics department.
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