Award winning artists showcase their craftsmanship at the exhibition

The Department of Handicrafts and Handlooms today organized an exhibition of two award-winning artists with an aim to acquaint people with their work.

The exhibition took place at Kashmir Arts Emporium, where two recently awarded craftsmen showcased their skills and presented their work on the spot.

The artists included Ghulam Nabi Dar, who was recently awarded the Padma Shri for his contributions to the field of walnut wood carving, and paper machine artist Riaz Ahmed Khan, who was recently awarded the State Award for his contributions. Was awarded.
Handicrafts Director Mahmood Shah said on the occasion that after the awards, people were eager to meet the artists and see their work.

“Keeping this in mind, we thought of organizing an exhibition for a few days so that people can come here and see his work firsthand, which can inspire them,” he said.

He said the aim of the department is to introduce people to the craft and show how much it has evolved, giving them an opportunity to see the brilliant work of these artists.
Shah mentioned that the government has launched various schemes focused on crafts and artists, which have benefited people associated with various art forms.

“Recently, we have launched craft safaris, and we are also working on promoting e-commerce, which will eventually eliminate the issue of middlemen shipping,” he said.

Kashmir’s Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri expressed happiness over the work of these artists being recognized at the highest level, highlighting the need to work for the further development of the region as well as the people associated with it.

“Kashmir is known for these crafts. I am happy that his work has been appreciated and recognized. It is our responsibility to take it forward. Even the G20 delegation was mesmerized, seeing such intricate art that they had never seen anywhere else,” he remarked.
Award-winning artist Riyaz Ahmed Khan of Alamgari Bazaar, who recently received the State Award, commented, “We should learn these crafts as they can help in earning livelihood. When people see our work, they appreciate it, which encourages us.”
Khan, who has graduated, stressed the importance of continuing the craft, saying, “This craft needs to be loved, and it definitely loves you too.” It inspires artists to do more work in this regard.