From Passion to Canvas: Art exhibition showcases talent of young artists

Srinagar, Oct 26: A vibrant and captivating grand Art Exhibition is currently underway at City Mall here hosted by the Second Lives Art Guild.

This event marks the third major exhibition for this dynamic group of hobbyist artists since its inception last year. The exhibition is titled "Revelations: Artful Insights," and it aims to showcase the talents of various artists while inspiring the community, especially the younger generation, to engage with the world of art.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. The Advisor appreciated the noble mission. He said such initiatives help the society towards protection, promotion and preservation of our age old cultural legacy and identify.

The event was attended by Mehmood Shah, Director of Handicrafts & Handlooms, and Prof. Zargar Zahoor, a former Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. The Second Lives Art Guild consists of a diverse group of individuals from various professional backgrounds who share a common passion for art. Among them is Dr. Jahangir Aslam Makhdoomi, who emphasizes the idea of a "second life" through art, stating, “We are job-doing people who come together to explore our passion for painting.” This sentiment resonates throughout the group, which includes professionals such as engineers, doctors, and other experts who dedicate their spare time to cultivating their artistic talents.

Er. Shazia Basharat, an engineer by profession, also shared her experience as a member of this vibrant community. She describes the guild as a space that fosters creativity and collaboration among its members. “We are art enthusiasts who motivate and inspire each other to indulge in this beautiful craft,” she explains. “For the past two years, we have organized art exhibitions to showcase our work and the work of other aspiring artists.”

In this exhibition, the participant artists include not only Dr. Jahangir and Er. Shazia but also Er. Samreen Nabi, Saqib Kachroo, and several emerging young artists like Falak Iqbal, Iqra Shabaan, and Sameer Shafi. Each artist brings a unique perspective and style to the exhibition, contributing to a rich tapestry of creativity and expression. Their works reflect a wide range of themes, from the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir to the intricacies of human emotions, demonstrating the artists' diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The Second Lives Art Guild was formed with a mission to provide a platform for self-taught artists to showcase their talents. The organizers aim to inspire people to explore their inherent artistic abilities and keep their passions alive. “Kashmir is famous for its rich artistic heritage, and we want to encourage people, especially the youth, to polish their talents and pursue their hobbies,” says one of the guild members.

The guild’s motto is to inspire the masses to explore nature, art, culture, and heritage while reducing the time spent on screens and gadgets. In an age dominated by technology, the guild believes it is crucial to reconnect with traditional forms of expression and creativity. Their efforts focus on organizing workshops and exhibitions that promote artistic skills and foster a sense of community among hobbyist artists.

The exhibition will continue for two days, on October 26th and 27th, 2024, providing ample opportunity for visitors to explore the various artworks on display. Each piece tells a story, inviting viewers to engage with the emotions and ideas behind the creations. The event serves as a reminder of the power of art to connect people, spark dialogue, and inspire change.