Principal Secretary, Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta and Secretary, Rural Development Department, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, jointly inaugurated a Tribal Art workshop at the GR Santosh Gallery, Kala Kendra, Jammu.
The workshop was a collaborative effort of the Kala Kendra Society, Jammu and the Department of Painting, Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA), University of Jammu. Speaking on the occasion, Suresh Kumar Gupta emphasized the need for artists, painters, and sculptors to explore indigenous art forms and promote tribal culture through their creative works.
He lauded the enthusiasm of the participants for engaging with themes related to tribal life and heritage. Mohammad Aijaz highlighted the role of art in tribal and rural development. He urged officers from the Rural Development Department to integrate local artists into the Rural Livelihood Mission and guide rural women in adding creative dimensions to their traditional arts.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary of Kala Kendra Society, informed that the event saw participation from 30 Fine Arts students. The workshop aimed to inspire the young generation to focus on Tribal Art alongside other contemporary forms. Renowned artist Madhusudan Das from Delhi was invited to train the participants in the nuances of Tribal Art.
Dr. Milan Sharma, Head of the Painting Department, IMFA, shared that the workshop showcased 30 unique artworks focusing on Tribal Art. She noted that this initiative has offered the students a deeper understanding of Tribal Art, fulfilling a critical gap in their academic and creative journeys.
Madhusudan Das, the visiting expert, appreciated the rich tribal art traditions of Jammu and Kashmir, which he believes need greater recognition. He expressed his commitment towards popularising the Tribal Art among the younger generation across India.
The workshop was coordinated by IMFA faculty members Rachita Dutta and Ankush Kesar. Rohit Verma, Sukhjeet Singh and Anish Tickoo stated that this workshop will help in conceptualising new dimensions towards Tribal Art.
They, in their separate lectures, remarked that the workshop's practical approach has allowed the students to explore the vibrant imagery, colours and stories inherent in Tribal Art, paving the way for a new creative language in their works.