Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 7: A 10-day workshop on printmaking, focused on traditional graphic techniques including relief printing, intaglio printing, and lithography, was inaugurated here today .
The event is being organized by the Kala Kendra Society, Jammu, in collaboration with the Department of Painting, Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA), University of Jammu.
Prof Shohab Anayat Malik, Principal of IMFA, was the chief guest on the occasion while Dr Lalit Gupta, a renowned writer and art historian, was special guest. Dr Javaid Rahi, Secretary of the Kala Kendra Society; Milan Sharma, Head of the Painting Department, and Dr Dushyant Sureshbai Patel, a Graphic Art Technician from the Department of Graphic Arts, Faculty of Fine Arts, MS University of Baroda, Gujarat, were also present on the presidium.
In his welcome address, Dr Javaid Rahi said that the objective of the workshop is to provide young artists with essential skills in graphics, including hands-on use of litho and etching presses, letterpress tools, and other equipment integral to printmaking.
Prof Shohab Anayat Malik, in his presidential address, expressed hope that the works created during the workshop would culminate in an exhibition. He praised this initiative as a pioneering effort to bridge digital and traditional printing techniques, thus offering a unique creative platform for the participants.
Dr Lalit Gupta stressed the importance of conducting such workshops regularly in Jammu to familiarize the new generation with both traditional and contemporary techniques in visual arts. He affirmed that this workshop will be a valuable resource for IMFA’s faculty and students.
Milan Sharma shared his optimism about the workshop’s experimental approach, which will be immensely beneficial to the participants.
Workshop expert Dr Dushyant Sureshbai Patel delivered a practical demonstration of printmaking techniques, and Rohit Verma spoke about the scope and potential outcomes of the program.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Richita Dutta, the workshop coordinator, who acknowledged the collaborative efforts of all involved.