“Art imitates life” — This philosophical observation of how real behaviors or real events shape the way we perceive things was reflected in most of the paintings and sculptures exhibited at a one-day art workshop and exhibition titled “Whispering Pines—Capturing Meghalaya’s Essence through Art” at Binary Space for Creative Incubation (BISCI), a co-working makers’ space, in Laitumkhrah on October 17.
Organised by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Shillong, in collaboration with the Positive Energy Art Foundation, Earth Gallery, and supported by the Small Art Project, the works of art exhibited on this day are a window to the artistic and creative realities of life.
This event which witnessed the participation of students of NIFT Shillong and aspiring artists from Kolkata, Shillong, and Tura, provided a unique platform for emerging talents to engage with renowned artists, fostering creativity and cultural exchange.
“Art transcends boundaries and unites people,” said Dr. Prakash Kishore, Founder and Honorary Director of Positive Energy Art Foundation. “This event celebrates Meghalaya’s rich heritage and provides a platform for participants to learn from prominent artists of the region,” he added.
Prior to the one-day workshop, participants from across the country were taken on an artistic journey, offering them an opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of Mylliem and Sohra, capturing the locales’ beauty and essence through art.
The journey also provided them with an opportunity to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering appreciation and understanding of Meghalaya’s indigenous cultures through art.
The one-day art workshop was also attended by Frederick Roy Kharkongor, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Arts & Culture, Government of Meghalaya.
In his speech, Kharkongor underscored the significance of art and culture in fostering community spirit, preserving heritage, and promoting local talent.
ABOUT POSITIVE ENERGY ART FOUNDATION
Headquartered in Shillong, the Positive Energy Art Foundation is an international platform dedicated to benefiting society through art. The foundation promotes art and artists through exhibitions, workshops, seminars, conferences, and art tours. Committed to uplifting tribal communities, it highlights their unique art, craft, and indigenous skills. The foundation is led by a team of experienced and dedicated individuals:
MEET THE YOUNG ARTISTS OF MEGHALAYA
Diving more into the artistic minds of the youth of Meghalaya, we spoke to a few of the young artists of the state to learn more about their journeys and challenges.
Baniarjingmut Lyngdoh Mawphlang, a student of Royal Global University, said despite its historical relevance across the globe, art is yet to take its full shape in Meghalaya. “For us, painting is a hobby because, in our society, an artist cannot be financially stable due to various cultural factors,” he said.
“Yes, the art community has come a long way but more still needs to be done to tap into the artistic minds of the youth because, trust me, our state has no dearth of talented and creative minds. Thanks to our senior artists, the foundation has been laid and it is up to us to build on that foundation,” the young artist said.
This art workshop has provided us a platform to connect with artists from across the country and to share knowledge and skills and it has benefitted them in many ways.
A young sculptor R. Suiam, also a student of Royal Global University, said there are only a handful of sculptors in the state. “I want to popularise this art form in the state because I believe paintings, sculptures, and visual art are some of the key tools to protect, preserve, and promote our culture and tradition.”
Another young artist Clive Steven Kharpuri from Shillong, also spoke about the role played by art in preserving and promoting our culture and traditions, reviving the art of storytelling and folklore.
Talking about the support system, Kharpuri said family support is very important for any artist. “In our society, art is taken very lightly, and if you say you want to pursue your studies or career in art, you might get the required support – financially and mentally, from your family,” he rued.
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