Hasrat inaugurates miniature painting exhibition

Excelsior Correspondent

Dignitaries during inauguration of miniature painting exhibition on Friday.
Dignitaries during inauguration of miniature painting exhibition on Friday.

JAMMU, Mar 20: GR Hasrat, a prominent literary figure of the State inaugurated the miniature painting exhibition at Kala Kendra, Jammu today.
The paintings prepared during the 5 day miniature camp organized by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages were mounted for display at Kala Kendra. As many as 12 artists participated in the camp. The aim of holding such camp and exhibition was to give platform to the young and budding artists for an interaction with the seniors and also to work towards promotion of this art.
Hasrat in his observation said that the State has a rich tradition of fine arts which is linked to its 5000 years odd history and the oldest Indus valley civilization adding that the State is known the world over for its miniature paintings particularly the Basohli paintings for its colour combination and themes.
The Secretary while expressing thanks to the Artists said that the chief characteristics of the Basohli paintings are geometrical patterns, bright colours and glossy enamel.
Further adding that the popular themes of the Basohli paintings are the portraits of local rulers, the Hindu Gods, figures from Hindu mythology, Radha -Krishna, Madhava-Malati love themes and themes from the Bhagavata Purana.
Figures in these paintings are often depicted in rich costumes with stylized faces and large bulging eyes. It evolved a fusion of Hindu mythology, Mughal miniature techniques and folk art of the local hills. In these paintings the faces of the figures painted are characterized by the receding foreheads and large expressive eyes shaped like lotus petals.
Dr A S Amn, Additional Secretary, presented vote of thanks to the distinguished guests.