About Us
(pronounced: Da-air-a)
From the Arabic word dā’ira, now an Urdu word meaning circle.
Founded with a deep love for contemporary art and culture, Daira is a platform that is designed to put the artist in the centre of the circle. Fostering the creation of art for the sake of art whilst also ensuring the global markets are able to access art, even from the hidden corners of the world.
Centred around the concepts of shared histories and personal narratives, Daira aims to reconnect heritage, culture and stories to the present day. We believe that every piece of art has the potential to link people to each other, to places unseen, and across timelines.
We believe that every artist deserves a platform to share their work with the world. At the same time, we believe that art collecting should be accessible to all, not limited to an elite few. We aim to connect a global community of collectors and art lovers, inviting them to experience culture and history through the lens of contemporary art.
S.M. Raza 21st Street, 2021, Oil on canvas
Our mission is simple: to make art from underrepresented regions globally visible, accessible and valued. For artists to make the art they love and share it with the world. For collectors to connect with and support hidden talent. For society, to celebrate art, culture and history across borders.
How do we do it?
Too often, art from developing countries is overlooked in global markets not because it lacks quality, but because it lacks access. We’re here to change that, we know that it’s hard work, and we love what we do. Through international exhibitions, curated collections, literature publication and thoughtful storytelling, Daira’s goal is to expand the circles in the art markets.
We begin in Pakistan, a country rich in artistic heritage and contemporary innovation, but often left out of global conversations. From here, the circle begins to grow.
Welcome to the circle.
Founders
Aleena Jangda
Born and raised in New York, with roots in Karachi, Pakistan, Aleena is a visual artist. After pursuing her BFA, she has worked on curating independent exhibitions and collaborative projects, often working with emerging artists. Her practice is driven by storytelling, access, and building spaces outside of traditional art institutions.
Favourite art style: impressionism
David Alfrey
Born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, David is an art collector now based out of London. He is a partner at an international law firm, and has founded and operated a number of other businesses internationally.
Favourite art style: surrealism
Justin Kew
Born and raised in Penang, Malaysia, Justin currently resides between London and Barcelona. He is an investment professional at a global hedge fund and has founded several international businesses. He is also an avid art collector.
Favourite art style: expressionism
On-the-Ground
Fareha Abid
Fareha Abid is a visual artist and fashion designer based in Karachi. She is the co-founder of SolarMare Studio, a collaborative platform for image-making, performance, and experimental fashion. She also co-leads Aramis Haijaan, a sustainable fashion label focused on circular design and local craft.
Fareha currently manages social media and communications for Daira Global.
S.M. Raza
S.M. Raza is a visual artist and educator currently working as adjunct faculty at the University of Karachi and Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture.
Raza is a Daira Ambassador, playing a key role in connecting local artists to our network and fostering community and collaboration throughout Karachi.
Click here to view Raza’s artist page.
Curatorial Team
Daira is strictly based on merit. Each Curated Collection and each in-person Exhibition are based on advice from a curatorial team. The members of the team vary based on a number of factors including the theme, style of art, jurisdiction, etc. The curatorial team’s profiles are kept confidential to preserve their privacy or any interference with the process.
Policies and Governance
Daira starts from transparent and accountable governance, ensuring that we always prioritise the wellbeing of those working with us, operating as a responsible business globally. By example, Daira has a zero-tolerance policy for any human rights abuse, bullying and harassment, money laundering, bribery and corruption and tax evasion. We welcome feedback, and include in our policy handbook, steps to raise any concerns or to provide feedback.
Daira is part of The Outcome Impactors.