Pakistan National Council of the Arts

The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) is located in Sector F-5/1, Islamabad, Pakistan. PNCA is a premier national institute that promotes artistic activity in all forms, including visual and performing arts. It was established through an Act of Parliament in 1973 with the mandate to lead the development of arts in Pakistan. The Council’s policies are framed by its Board of Governors, which reports to the Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division.

The Council is structured into four major divisions:

• Visual Arts Division: Established in 1974 and initially named the “Plastic Arts Division”. It has two operational components: The National Art Gallery (NAG) & Design Section.
• Performing Arts Division: Mandated for the promotion and preservation of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, it organizes different shows/programs representing provincial/regional cultures/heritage.
• Children Art Workshop: Organizes various programs to explore hidden talent among students/youth.
• National Puppet Theatre: Established in 1975 to promote the dying art of puppetry and educate children using puppets as tools.

PNCA aims to make art accessible to everyone and promote artists and art groups at home and on the world stage. It also organizes pictorial exhibitions to celebrate the culture and heritage of Pakistan.