On January 7, 2026, a significant moment of cultural diplomacy unfolded at the Pakistan High Commission in Ottawa. High Commissioner Muhammad Saleem hosted a special reception for Khalil Najmi, an internationally acclaimed Pakistani artist whose work is redefining how the world views Islamic history and South Asian identity.
The centerpiece of the visit was Najmi’s presentation of a masterpiece medallion portrait of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. This work, gifted to the High Commission, serves as more than just a likeness of the Father of the Nation; it is a testament to a rare, intricate art form that Najmi has spent decades perfecting.
The Art of the Medallion
Khalil Najmi is a pioneer in medallion portraiture, a medium that occupies the delicate space between sculpture and coinage. His process involves carving solid material (often Pakistani Deodar wood or marble) so that the image projects slightly from the background, creating a three-dimensional depth. These miniature monuments are designed to be tactile. In fact, Najmi famously shares a story of a visually impaired man who, by running his fingers over a Jinnah medallion, was able to ‘see’ the Quaid’s features for the first time.
His work has previously been presented to global leaders, including the Saudi Royal Family and UAE leadership, effectively acting as an artistic passport for Pakistan’s soft image.
Source: ismailimail
Building Bridges in Canada
During the meeting, High Commissioner Saleem emphasized that artists like Najmi are vital bridge-builders. In the context of 2026, where the Pakistani diaspora is growing in influence, such cultural exchanges are seen as key pillars of Public Diplomacy.
By blending classical techniques with contemporary subjects, Najmi isn’t just creating art; he is creating a dialogue. As the medallion of Jinnah now takes its place in Ottawa, it stands as a symbol of the soft power that art exerts, proving that a single, finely-carved image can speak louder than a thousand political speeches.
