As unique as its name sounds, Unicorn Gallery is fast becoming the toast of the art lovers’ town, barely over a week since its launch in the city.

What makes it a popular haunt is its prime location in Gulberg, coupled with its soothing interior, and a mesmerising collection of art pieces from around the world.

Other than the numerous works of paintings by renowned national and international artists, the gallery exhibits the phenomenal French artist Jean Claude Novaro, whose distinctive art glass creations have earned him the title of the ‘King of glass.’ At Unicorn, each of Novaro’s glass works is different yet more stunning than the other, be it the formation of bubbles in the glass sculpture, the use of real gold in its texture or the illuminant masterpieces.

The founder of the Unicorn Gallery, Seemah Niazi feels honoured to have displayed the work of Novaro posthumously, since his family is now left with limited pieces created by him.

It may be mentioned here that Unicorn’s Karachi outlet also boasts the late French artist’s works. Niazi claims to have "sold about 15 art pieces on the opening day in Karachi itself… People came over especially to buy the glasswork."

In Lahore, Unicorn is also currently displaying the works of the Sri Lankan master artist Senaka Senanayake who is known for his outstanding portrayal of nature in his paintings.

Talking to TNS, Niazi says that Senanayake was tipped to fly down to Pakistan but could not due to security reasons. "But we managed to bring his work over, and he is content with his break in the Pakistani market."

There are 35-40 other artists who have found the pride of place at Unicorn. They include Abdul Hayee, Gulgee, Abdur Rahman Chugtai, Hanif Shahzad, Mansoor Rahi, Abrar Ahmad, Khalid Iqbal, Muhammad Ali Talpur, and Murtaza Bashir.

The place has an individualistic characteristic about it which makes it stand out among its contemporaries. Unicorn now also looks forward to holding screenings of award-winning indie films, which is already a popular practice at the Karachi outlet where the films are shown under the title of ‘Story of a masterpiece.’ The chosen films explore contemporary art and artists such as Picasso and Rembrandt, and the screenings are followed by discussions on the artists shown in the films.

Additionally, Seemah Niazi speaks of starting a literary club and cultural programmes at the venue.

Although, the gallery has been set up at a limited space, it is through the clever use of minimal lighting and white painted walls, and an intelligent distribution of artworks that you never get the feel of clutter.