The seven-day ‘Impressions & Expressions – HC Rai Memorial Art Fest – 2024’ concluded with an overwhelming sense of celebration and enthusiasm. The participating artists expressed their excitement and commitment to returning next year with more of their creative works, aiming to further engage young, emerging artists. The festival showcased the artwork of four generations of artists, beginning with the legendary HC Rai, followed by his students, and their pupils as it featured artists including Prof. Him Chatterjee, Prof. Ranjan Mallik, Kewal Krishna Kamra, Jagjit Singh, Danny Balbir Singh, and Aditya Singh Thakur.
Amala Rai, Secretary of Abhivyakti, shared that the daily footfall of art enthusiasts averaged 600-700 visitors, demonstrating the festival’s widespread appeal. Many connoisseurs of art were eager to purchase the displayed works, with approximately Rs. 3,00,000 worth of paintings and sculptures sold during the event. Rai expressed her gratitude, noting that this success was a strong sign of encouragement for the artists, as art truly finds its appreciation in the eyes of the buyer.
Live portrait sketches by artist Jagjit Nishant were particularly well-received, with nearly Rs. 20,000 worth of sketches made and sold.
Several notable comments were left in the visitor’s book, reflecting the positive impact of the festival. Kamaljit and Davinder from the USA remarked, “Great to see the work of local artists being celebrated and exhibited. Please keep encouraging them.” Anshul Kaushik from Dehradun shared, “It made me realize why I love art—the escape from reality, the camaraderie, the simple transfer of love from the artist’s viewpoint to the viewer. I will remember this as the highlight of my trip to Shimla.” Goseth and Steph from the UK added, “Some wonderful paintings, especially the Shimla skyline and lovely sculptures, one of which we are delighted to have purchased.”
Education Minister, who inaugurated the Art Fest, was deeply appreciative of the initiative, stating, “I congratulate Amala Rai for organizing the Art Fest in memory of her late father, HC Rai, who was the founding principal of Fine Arts College Shimla. Rai was a noble soul and a great painter of our nation. Her efforts to keep his legacy alive are commendable, and I also applaud the entire team behind this initiative.” The minister took the time to interact with each artist, gaining insight into their work. The Hon’ble Chief Minister also visited the Art Fest and congratulated the team for their dedication in making the event a grand success.
Dr OC Handa, a well-know connoisseur of art and culture visited the Impressions & Expressions HC Rai Memorial ArtFest and share his opinions. Art has to be felt and the emotions it evokes in one is what leads to the success of the artist.
In her closing remarks, Amala Rai expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming appreciation from visitors and promised to return next year with a fresh vision. She announced that ‘Impressions & Expressions’ would now become an annual series, with the continued support of the Language & Culture Department, which has provided unwavering assistance throughout the event.
The festival has certainly set a high bar for future editions, leaving both artists and visitors eagerly anticipating what comes next.
