Art News

Pakistani Art Makes U.S. Debut at Asia Society Museum Amid Political Challenges

NEW YORK, NY (REUTERS).- An exhibit of rare Buddhist sculptures, architectural reliefs and works of gold and bronze is opening at the Asia Society Museum on Tuesday after a long and tumultuous journey from Pakistan. The works, many of which have never been shown before in the United States, are from the historically rich Gandharan region of Pakistan. They had originally been scheduled to be shown in March but roadblocks, U.S. visa problems for Pakistani officials accompanying the works and a new Pakistani law delayed the opening until this month. “Bringing the show was a major feat,” said Melissa Chiu, the director of the Asia Society’s Museum. “Within the political