Question:

Would you agree that art, design, and culture are viewed as elitist activities in Pakistan? If
yes/no, give supporting arguments, and examples from history and the present day.

The perception of art, design, and culture as elitist activities in Pakistan is a multifaceted
issue with deep historical roots that continue to influence contemporary society. This essay
aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of this phenomenon by examining the historical
and cultural context of Pakistan, presenting arguments both for and against the notion of
elitism in art, design, and culture, and offering a plethora of specific examples and viewpoints
to support the discussion.

Historical Context: (Terra, 2011)

Understanding the perception of elitism in Pakistan's art, design, and culture requires a deep
dive into its historical context. The roots of Pakistan's cultural and artistic landscape can be
traced back to the rich tapestry of the region's history, influenced by a blend of Mughal,
Persian, and Islamic traditions. However, these cultural riches have often been overshadowed
by class divisions, limited access to education, and hierarchical structures.

Historically, South Asia, including what is now Pakistan, has a legacy of elite patronage of
the arts. The Mughal emperors were known for their patronage of various artistic endeavors,
including intricate miniature paintings, architectural wonders, and other cultural expressions.
Even during the colonial period, British rulers significantly impacted the art and culture of
the region, perpetuating the notion of elitism. This historical backdrop has left a profound
mark on the way art, design, and culture are perceived in contemporary Pakistan.

Arguments for the Perception of Elitism in Art, Design, and Culture:

(Camplin, 2019)

 Limited Access and Resources: A crucial argument supporting the perception of art,
design, and culture as elitist activities in Pakistan is the restricted access to these
domains for the majority of the population. Engaging in artistic and cultural pursuits
often demands resources such as quality education, materials, and exhibition spaces.
The scarcity of these resources makes it challenging for many individuals to explore
these fields, thereby reinforcing the idea that they are reserved for the elite.

 Influence of Western Models: The influence of Western models of art and culture
has played a significant role in perpetuating the perception of elitism. In post-colonial
Pakistan, there has been a tendency to value Western art and culture more highly than
indigenous forms. This has resulted in a situation where art and culture that align with
Western norms are often regarded as more prestigious, perpetuating the idea that they
are the domains of the elite.

 Class Divisions: Pakistan, like many societies, is marked by significant class

divisions that impact the accessibility of art, design, and culture. The upper and
middle classes often have greater exposure to artistic and cultural experiences due to
their financial means and access to education. Meanwhile, the lower classes have
limited opportunities to engage in these activities, further reinforcing the perception of
elitism.
Examples from History and the Present Day:

 The Influence of Mughal Art: The Mughal era, which spanned from the early 16th
to the mid-18th century, is celebrated for its contribution to art, architecture, and
culture in the Indian subcontinent. The stunning Mughal architecture, intricate
miniature paintings, and rich literature created during this period were primarily
commissioned by the Mughal emperors and their nobility. This historical precedent
laid the foundation for the perception of art and culture as elite activities.

 Colonial Legacy: The British colonial rule in India and later Pakistan significantly
shaped the cultural landscape of the region. English education, Western art, and
British cultural norms were promoted and valued. This legacy still influences the
perception of what is considered prestigious in art, design, and culture, with Western
aesthetics often favored over indigenous expressions.

 Limited Access to Cultural Institutions: Pakistan's cultural institutions, including

museums, art galleries, and theaters, have often been concentrated in urban centers
and are not easily accessible to the broader population. This geographic and economic
disparity limits the participation of marginalized communities in cultural activities
and reinforces the perception of elitism.

 Influence of Private Schools and Elite Universities: High-quality education in art

and design is often provided by private schools and elite universities. These
institutions tend to be expensive, making them inaccessible to the majority of the
population. This results in a disproportionate representation of the elite in artistic and
cultural circles.

 Contemporary Art Scene: The contemporary art scene in Pakistan, while vibrant
and diverse, is still often associated with elite social circles. Art exhibitions and
galleries are frequently attended by privileged classes, and the prices of artworks can
be exorbitant, making it challenging for ordinary citizens to engage with art.

Arguments Against the Perception of Elitism in Art, Design, and Culture:

(Arora, 2014) (Thorpe, 2014)

 Diverse Cultural Heritage: Pakistan's cultural heritage is incredibly diverse,

encompassing a wide array of languages, traditions, and art forms. While some
aspects of culture may be associated with elitism, there are also many local, grassroots
expressions of art and culture that are accessible to a broader population.
 Emerging Grassroots Movements: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of
grassroots movements in Pakistan that aim to democratize art and culture. Street art,
community-based theater, and music festivals that target a wider audience have
gained popularity. These movements challenge the notion that art is solely for the
elite.
  Digital Revolution: The digital revolution has democratized access to art and culture.
Social media platforms, online art galleries, and streaming services have made it
easier for artists and cultural practitioners from diverse backgrounds to share their
work and reach a global audience, breaking down traditional barriers of elitism.

 Government Initiatives: The government of Pakistan has made efforts to promote

and support art and culture by establishing cultural institutions, funding cultural
festivals, and providing platforms for emerging artists. While these initiatives are not
without challenges, they demonstrate a recognition of the importance of
democratizing cultural participation.

Examples and Contemporary Debates:

 Sufi Music and Folk Traditions: Pakistan's rich heritage of Sufi music and folk
traditions offers a counterpoint to the perception of elitism in music and culture.
These traditions are deeply rooted in local communities and are celebrated by a wide
range of people, from various socioeconomic backgrounds.

 Pakistani Cinema: While Pakistan has a burgeoning film industry, it has had its
share of challenges. However, in recent years, a new wave of filmmakers has
emerged, producing content that resonates with a broader audience. Movies like
"Punjab Nahi Jaungi" and "Teefa in Trouble" have demonstrated that Pakistani
cinema can be accessible and relatable.

 Street Art and Graffiti: Street art and graffiti are gaining prominence in Pakistani
cities, particularly Karachi and Lahore. These art forms are often more accessible to
the public, as they are displayed in public spaces, challenging the notion of elitism in
art and design.

 Promotion of Regional Languages: Efforts to promote and preserve regional
languages in Pakistan, such as Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi, help counteract the
dominance of Urdu and English in cultural expression. This promotes inclusivity and
ensures that a wide range of voices and perspectives are heard.

 Educational Initiatives: Some educational institutions and non-profit organizations
in Pakistan are actively working to bridge the gap in arts education. Initiatives
providing scholarships, workshops, and mentorship programs aim to make artistic and
cultural education more accessible.

Conclusion

The perception of art, design, and culture as elitist activities in Pakistan is deeply
rooted in historical legacies, class divisions, and limited access to resources and
opportunities. However, there are also strong counterarguments against this
perception. Pakistan's rich cultural heritage, emerging grassroots movements, the
influence of the digital age, and government initiatives are all contributing to a more
inclusive and accessible cultural landscape.
To overcome the perception of elitism in art, design, and culture, it is crucial to
continue supporting and promoting grassroots movements, improving access to
cultural institutions, and celebrating Pakistan's diverse cultural traditions. By
recognizing the value of indigenous forms of expression and embracing a more
inclusive approach to art and culture, Pakistan can gradually shift away from the
entrenched notion of elitism and move towards a more equitable cultural landscape.

https://aansari86.medium.com/politics-method-cd4cc2c8f5e6