Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 12 August 2023
An inspiring art exhibition titled ‘Expression through Colours’ kicked off with grandeur at the Art Gallery and Studio in Gandhi Park on August 11, 2023. The exhibition, a highlight of the ongoing Independence Day celebrations, has been organized by Kala Kendra, a society under the Department of Art & Culture, A&N Administration. The event has drawn attention from art enthusiasts and the general public alike, showcasing an impressive assortment of paintings and sculptures.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of notable figures, including the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of A&N Administration, Mr. Nikhil Kumar, IAS, who officiated the event as the Chief Guest. The inaugural ceremony also saw the participation of Secretary of Art & Culture, Mr. Binay Bhushan, IAS, and Director of Art & Culture, Dr. Jatinder Sohal, along with numerous art enthusiasts.
During his visit, Mr. Nikhil Kumar, IAS, took a comprehensive tour of the exhibition, displaying a genuine fascination for the diverse range of paintings and sculptures crafted by accomplished artists hailing from the islands. This interactive journey allowed the artists a unique opportunity to elucidate their creative expressions and visions to the Chief Guest. Impressed by the dedication and craftsmanship on display, Mr. Nikhil Kumar commended the artists for their exceptional efforts and urged them to persist in their artistic pursuits.
The Commissioner-cum-Secretary offered insightful suggestions to enhance the exhibition space and its ambiance. He proposed implementing focused lighting arrangements to highlight the artworks, incorporating succinct descriptions to accompany each piece, and introducing air-conditioning to elevate visitors’ overall experience. Furthermore, he encouraged the organisation of painting workshops aimed at nurturing young talent, particularly school students, to impart foundational skills and knowledge in painting. To foster an environment of growth and learning, he proposed inviting renowned artists from the mainland to lead these workshops. Mr. Nikhil Kumar also emphasised the importance of hosting quarterly theme-based exhibitions to stimulate a continuous flow of artistic innovation.
Visitors to the Art Gallery are treated to a captivating display of artwork created through various mediums, as well as intricate terracotta and wood carvings. The exhibition proudly presents works by esteemed artists such as Ram Prasad Bhattacharya, Aji, Dhruw Nath Singh, Ali Akbar, Basu Kumar, Krishnendu Chakraborty, and Mahananada Gomasta, known for his exceptional wood carving craftsmanship. Other contributing artists include Ms. Shampa Ray, Ms. Y Mohitha, S. Mohan Rao, P. Senthil Kumar, Prasanjit Dhauria, Parmeswar Rao, SNS Prakash, Ms. Pallavi, Suresh, RK. Biswas, Dipankar Banerjee, and O. Neelkantam.
The Department of Art & Culture remains dedicated to supporting local artists, both seasoned professionals and emerging talents, through a consistent array of painting and photographic exhibitions. This weeklong artistic extravaganza will remain accessible to the public from 4 to 7 p.m. until August 18, offering an excellent opportunity for art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the creativity and brilliance of these gifted artists.