The Speaking Art Fest: A Triumph in Art and Culture
The Speaking Art Fest returned with its much-anticipated second edition, firmly establishing itself as a beacon for artistic excellence and cultural dialogue in the capital. Organized by the SPEAKING ART FOUNDATION in collaboration with the Lalit Kala Akademi, this four-day extravaganza, held at Rabindra Bhawan Grounds, Mandi House, New Delhi, from November 24th to 27th, 2024, set new benchmarks for creativity and artistic engagement.
A Showcase of India’s Diverse Artistry
Featuring the works of over 100 talented artists from across the nation, the fest was a vibrant celebration of India’s diverse artistic heritage. From thought-provoking abstract paintings to intricately detailed sculptures, the exhibitions reflected a medley of styles, themes, and mediums, leaving visitors spellbound.
The highlight was undoubtedly the Master Artists’ National Art Camp, where luminaries such as Roop Chand, Naval Kishore, Dr. Suryasnata Mohanty, Gurmeet Goldie, and Ranjit Sarkar created live masterpieces. Their creations were a testament to the boundless imagination and technical brilliance that define Indian art.
Inspiring Dialogues and Events
The inaugural ceremony was graced by veteran painter Sh. Roop Chand, Padma Shri Prof. Biman Bihari Das, and Prof. Prem Singh, setting a celebratory tone for the fest. A standout moment on the first day was a storytelling session by Bharti Dixit, who vividly narrated the life journey of iconic artist Amrita Shergil. The session captured the imagination of the audience, blending history with art.
Another notable event was a dialogue celebrating the 50-year artistic journey of senior artist and writer Ashok Bhowmik. Esteemed speakers Johny ML, Saswati Choudhary, Akshat Sinha, and Jai Prakash Tripathi shared their perspectives, while artist Shakti Singh Ahlawat painted a live portrait of Bhowmik, turning the session into a living artwork itself.
Honoring Artistic Visionaries
A moment of pride during the inauguration was the felicitation of Mr. Neeraj Sharma, Founder of the Speaking Art Foundation, by the Bahumukhi Kalakaar Sangam, an organization devoted to artist welfare. Mr. Sharma, a Senior Fellowship awardee in photography, was honored by the Chairman and Founder of BKS for his unwavering dedication to fostering art and culture. The gesture underscored the recognition of his efforts in elevating the art community and creating platforms like the Speaking Art Fest.
Empowering Artists
The fest also addressed practical aspects of the art world. Legal experts Rahul Goel and Anu Monga conducted a dialogue on art and law, enlightening attendees on critical topics such as copyright and gallery contracts. On the final day, a discussion delved into the economic aspects of art, offering insights into navigating the commercial dimensions of artistic pursuits.
A Grand Success
The Speaking Art Fest emerged as a platform for creative expression, cultural exchange, and meaningful dialogue, drawing art enthusiasts, critics, and collectors alike. Its success not only underscores the vibrancy of India’s contemporary art scene but also highlights the power of collaborative efforts in promoting cultural heritage.
As the curtain falls on this landmark event, it leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, innovation, and inclusivity, promising a brighter future for art and artists in India and beyond.
