Public art spaces of India are a reflection of our Lok Kala and Lok Sanskriti. When we talk about Public Art, it is very dynamic and is an intersection of past, present, and future. Through it, we can see the amalgamation of different ideas in various art forms like traditional and contemporary. This art form which is freely accessible to the public; attracts not only attention but even thoughts begin to gather as to why this work of art is here, what is its uniqueness, what material it is made up of, and what is the thought of the artist behind this artwork. Making it open to various interesting interpretations. These are the few aspects that make this art very special. It connects the public to the art.

With rapid urbanization, Public Art enhances a sense of distinctiveness and adds aesthetic value to the image of a city. It contributes to the visual quality of the public arena encouraging community pride with a sense of belonging. It uplifts and engages visitors or passers-by’s travel experience by leaving an imprint in their minds. The outreach of Public Art is immense and thought-provoking. It acts as a significant factor in giving visual recognition to a specific place. The public art augments and induces meaning to a public space making it an integral part of the culture and society.

The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, on the occasion of the 46^th Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting, which is being held in New Delhi from 21st-31st July 2024, has initiated Project PARI (Public Art of India). Under it, Lalit Kala Akademi, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, has invited more than 150 visual artists from all over the country. The Project PARI aims to provide a platform to uplift the aesthetic and cultural outlook of Delhi while adding grandeur to the rich historical legacy of our national capital.

Lalit Kala Akademi and the National Gallery of Modern Art seek to bring forth public art that draws inspiration from millennia of artistic heritage (lok kala/lok sanskriti) while incorporating modern themes and techniques. These expressions underscore the intrinsic value that art holds in Indian society, serving as a testament to the nation's enduring commitment to creativity and artistic expression. These artists are working on various sites in the national capital for the beautification of the public spaces for the upcoming event.

The representation of Art in public spaces is particularly significant as it showcases the nation's rich and diverse cultural heritage. The democratization of art through public installations transforms urban landscapes into accessible galleries, where art transcends the confines of traditional venues such as museums and galleries. By integrating art into streets, parks, and transit hubs, these initiatives ensure that artistic experiences are available to one and all. This inclusive approach fosters a shared cultural identity and enhances social cohesion, inviting citizens to engage with art in their day-to-day life. Project PARI aims to stimulate dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, contributing to the dynamic cultural fabric of the nation.

Traditional art forms as well as sculptures, murals, and installations have been created under this beautification project. More than 150 visual artists from all over the country have come together to create the various wall paintings, murals, sculptures, and installations being prepared under this project. The creative canvas includes but is not limited to artwork inspired by and /or drawn in styles of Phad paintings (Rajasthan), Thangka painting (Sikkim/Ladakh), miniature painting (Himachal Pradesh), Gond art (Madhya Pradesh), Tanjore paintings (Tamil Nadu), Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh), Alpona art (West Bengal), Cheriyal painting (Telangana), Pichhwai Painting (Rajasthan), Lanjia Saura (Odisha), Pattachitra (West Bengal), Bani Thani Painting (Rajasthan), Warli (Maharashtra), Pithora Art (Gujarat), Aipan (Uttarakhand), Kerala Murals (Kerala), Alpana art (Tripura) and more.

The proposed sculptures being created for Project PARI include wide-ranging ideas such as paying tributes to nature, ideas inspired by the Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, toys of India, hospitality, ancient knowledge, Naad or Primeval Soun, Harmony of life, Kalpataru – the divine tree, etc.

Furthermore, in sync with the proposed 46^th World Heritage Committee Meeting, some of the artworks and sculptures draw inspiration from World Heritage Sites such as Bimbetka and the 7 natural World Heritage Sites in India find a special place in the proposed artworks.

Women artists have been an integral part of Project PARI and their participation in large numbers is a testimony of Bharat’s NARI SHAKTI.

Project PARI stands as a monumental effort to infuse Delhi with the rich and diverse artistic heritage of India, while simultaneously embracing contemporary themes and expressions. As the city prepares to host the 46^th session of the World Heritage Committee, the initiative not only beautifies public spaces but also democratizes art, making it accessible to all. This cultural renaissance, brought to life by the collaborative efforts of over 150 visual artists, showcases the profound and multifaceted traditions of Indian art. By engaging citizens and fostering a shared cultural identity, the initiative not only enriches the urban landscape but also inspires a deeper connection with our heritage.

Come and join the celebrations. Click your selfie with a Project PARI creation and share your pictures on social media with #ProjectPARI.

References

· https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2031268 .

· https://lalitkala.gov.in/pariproject

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Beena Yadav/Ritu Kataria/Apoorva Mahiwal