A five-day art camp dedicated to exploring India’s folk and rural traditions through the lens of Kangra miniature paintings was inaugurated at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Nivas, Shimla. Titled “Folk and Rural Imagery in Kangra Miniatures: An Indigenous Indian Art Perspective,” the camp will continue until June 19.
The inaugural session was held at Siddharth Vihar, where IIAS Secretary Mehar Chand Negi welcomed participating artists, scholars, and guests. Introducing the theme, Dr. Pankaj Gupta, Convener of the Art Camp and Former Fellow of IIAS, highlighted the lesser-explored aspects of Kangra miniature art that depict rural life, agrarian traditions, local festivals, and the everyday experiences of hill communities.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, Director, IIAS, emphasized the deep connection between folk life and Indian artistic traditions. He noted that such initiatives are crucial for preserving traditional art forms while providing artists with meaningful platforms for creative expression and cultural engagement.
The camp has brought together six distinguished Kangra miniature painters and two senior Chamba Rumal artists, who will create original artworks inspired by folk culture, indigenous traditions, local beliefs, and the rural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. These creations will become part of the permanent collection of IIAS, enriching its cultural and academic resources.
The camp will culminate on June 19 with a special exhibition showcasing artworks created during the programme, alongside the inauguration of the Institute’s newly developed Art Gallery. The exhibition and gallery will be formally inaugurated by Himachal Pradesh Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta at 2:00 p.m. in the Library Hall of IIAS.
The exhibition will present contemporary interpretations of folk and rural life through Kangra miniature paintings and the traditional art of Chamba Rumal, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the artistic heritage of the Himalayan region.
IIAS officials expressed confidence that the initiative will strengthen efforts to preserve indigenous art traditions, support traditional artists, and promote greater awareness of India’s rich folk and cultural heritage among scholars, students, and the wider public.
The inaugural session was conducted by Dr. Akhilesh Pathak, Public Relations Officer, IIAS, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Rajeev Mishra, Librarian and Academic Resource Officer. The event was attended by Institute officials, fellows, researchers, artists, students, and eminent personalities from the fields of art and culture.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
