Naqsh o Nigar’ Exhibition Garners Enthusiastic Response

Shereen Naman

Srinagar: 'Naqsh o Nigar,' an exhibition featuring a blend of Art, Craft, and Photography has received an overwhelming response from the art enthusiasts.

Launched by the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, at the Government Arts Emporium on January 12, the exhibition was organized in collaboration with Edraak, an institution dedicated to revitalizing education in Kashmir through arts and aesthetics.

Showcasing the works of 25 artists, primarily young students from diverse fields, the event reflects a rich diversity of artistic expression. These artists, driven by a deep love for their craft, have poured their hearts into the creation of a captivating collection.

"Curating such programs does not only boost our confidence but also provides us with a promising platform to come forward. We are lucky to showcase our talents as budding artists in front of such supportive personalities," Sameera Nabi, one of the artists, said.

Since Srinagar joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), the department of Handicrafts and Handloom, J&K has taken the initiative to host these exhibitions, which honor the rich heritage of artistic expression.

"This exhibition has made us tie up with UNESCO, which has given me enough confidence. I didn’t sell my artwork earlier, but now, through this exhibition, I am happy to see my pieces getting booked," said Shazia Basharat.

“The pieces of art exhibit a deep investigation of methods, supplies, and ideas, encouraging communication between the known and the unknown as well as between the past and the present,” Shazia added.

Other artists also hailed the exhibition as an open and encouraging platform, giving them the recognition they deserve.

“The government is further planning to curate such exhibitions to promote the talent in Kashmir valley. I am glad to see that the majority of them, being young minds, are eager to learn and sell their art,” Zuhaib Hassan, an artist said.

Saima Farooq, a papier-mâché artist, said that she has tried to showcase unique designs, other than the usual ones, during the event.

"In addition to papier-mâché khatamband pieces, we have done a fusion of papiermâché and applied it to some different stuff," Saima said.