Project PARI: Celebrating India's Artistic Legacy in Public Spaces
India's public art spaces serve as a vibrant reflection of our Lok Kala and Lok Sanskriti. Public art, with its dynamic nature, bridges the gap between the past, present, and future, showcasing a fusion of traditional and contemporary ideas. This accessible art form captivates onlookers, sparking curiosity about its purpose, uniqueness, materials, and the artist's vision. Such artworks are open to diverse interpretations, making them particularly special as they forge a connection between the public and the art itself. As urbanisation accelerates, public art enhances cities' uniqueness and aesthetic appeal. It enriches the visual landscape of public spaces, fostering community pride and a sense of belonging. The impact of public art on visitors and passersby is significant, often leaving a lasting impression. Its vast and thought-provoking reach offers visual recognition to specific places and adds layers of meaning to public spaces.
One such notable initiative is Project Pari, launched by the Lalit Kala Akademi. This project intertwines art, culture and national development, aiming to foster creativity and innovation while contributing to the nation's growth. This explainer delves into the purpose, inception, objectives and recent developments related to Project PARI, including its alignment with the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Inception and Purpose
In celebration of the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting, held in New Delhi from July 21st to 31st, 2024, the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, launched Project PARI (Public Art of India). This initiative, spearheaded by Lalit Kala Akademi an autono-mous institution under the Ministry of Culture, has gathered over 150 visual artists from across the country. Project PARI aims to elevate the aesthetic and cultural landscape of Delhi, adding splendour to the city's rich historical legacy.
Lalit Kala Akademi, in collaboration with the National Gallery of Modern Art, aspires to create public art that draws from centuries of artistic heritage (lok kala/lok sanskriti) while integrating contemporary themes and techniques. These artistic endeavours highlight the intrinsic value of art in Indian society, showcasing the nation's enduring dedication to creativity and artistic expression. The artists are working on various sites throughout the national capital to enhance public spaces in preparation for the upcoming event.
The inception of Project PARI can be traced back to the increasing need for a structured approach to cultural preservation and promotion. The project seeks to bridge the gap between traditional and modern art forms, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of India is passed on to future generations while fostering innovation in the arts.
The representation of art in public spaces is profoundly significant as it showcases a nation's rich and diverse cultural heritage. Through public installations, art is democratised, transforming urban landscapes into accessible galleries where the boundaries of traditional venues like museums and galleries are transcended. By integrating art into streets, parks, and transit hubs, these initiatives ensure that artistic experiences are available to everyone. This inclusive approach fosters a shared cultural identity and enhances social cohesion, inviting citizens to engage with art in their everyday lives. Project PARI aims to stimulate dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, thereby enriching the dynamic cultural fabric of the nation.
Diverse Artistic Expressions
Traditional art forms, along with sculptures, murals, and installations, have flourished under this beautification project. Over 150 visual artists from across the country have collaborated to create an array of wall paintings, murals, sculptures, and installations. The creative canvas features artwork inspired by diverse styles, including Phad paintings from Rajasthan, Thangka paintings from Sikkim/ Ladakh, miniature paintings from Himachal Pradesh, Gond art from Madhya Pradesh, Tanjore paintings from Tamil Nadu, Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Alpona art from West Bengal, Cheriyal painting from Telangana, Pichhwai painting from Rajasthan, Lanjia Saura from Odisha, Pattachitra from West Bengal, Bani Thani painting from Rajasthan, Warli from Maharashtra, Pithora art from Gujarat, Aipan from Uttarakhand, Kerala murals from Kerala, and Alpana art from Tripura.
The sculptures for Project PARI encompass a wide range of themes, including tributes to nature, inspirations from the Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, Indian toys, hospitality, ancient knowledge, Naad (Primeval Sound), Harmony of Life, and Kalpataru (the divine tree).
Women's Empowerment in Project PARI
Some of the artworks and sculptures are inspired by World Heritage Sites like Bhimbetkaand India's seven Natural World Heritage Sites, which feature prominently in the project.
Project PARI exemplifies women's empowerment by actively involving female artists in its initiatives. The project has seen significant participation of women artists from across the country, highlighting their crucial role in the cultural landscape of India. Women artists contribute to various aspects of Project PARI, from traditional art forms to contemporary installations. Their involvement not only showcases their talent but also challenges traditional gender roles and promotes a more inclusive cultural narrative. The diversity of styles and themes brought by women artists enriches the project's creative output, reflecting a wide range of experiences and stories.
Moreover, Project PARI's emphasis on public art provides women artists with greater visibility and recognition. By displaying their work in public spaces, the project democratises art and ensures that women's contributions are acknowledged and celebrated by a broader audience. This visibility helps to inspire and empower other women to pursue careers in the arts, creating a ripple effect of empowerment.
How Project PARI is Helping Build a Viksit Bharat?
Project PARI is intricately linked to the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) through its focus on cultural preservation, artistic innovation, and community engagement. Viksit Bharat envisions a developed India that is economically prosperous, socially inclusive, and culturally vibrant. Project PARI contributes to this vision in the following ways:
· Cultural Preservation and Promotion: Project PARI's focus on traditional art forms ensures that India's rich cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated. This fosters a deep sense of national identity and pride, essential for a cohesive and progressive society.
· Economic Growth through Creative Industries: By providing a platform for over 150 visual artists from across the country, Project PARI stimulates the creative economy which will create job opportunities and promote economic growth, aligning with the economic objectives of Viksit Bharat.
· Inclusive Development and Social Cohesion: The democratisation of art through public installations makes cultural experiences accessible to all, promoting social inclusion. This approach fosters a shared cultural identity and enhances social cohesion, crucial for the inclusive development of Viksit Bharat.
· Women Empowerment: The significant participation of women artists in Project PARI highlights Bharat's Nari Shakti, showcasing the strength and creativity of Indian women. This empowerment of women artists is a vital component of social development and gender equality.
· Education and Awareness: Project PARI's emphasis on art education and outreach activities promotes cultural awareness and education among the youth. This educational focus supports the intellectual and cultural development of future generations.
Project PARI is a shining example of how art can be harnessed to achieve broader social, cultural, and economic goals. Integrating traditional and contemporary art forms into public spaces, not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of urban landscapes but also fosters a shared cultural identity among citizens. The project's commitment to cultural preservation, artistic innovation, and community engagement aligns seamlessly with the vision of Viksit Bharat, contributing to a more inclusive, prosperous, and culturally vibrant India. Moreover, Project PARI's emphasis on women's empowerment and education underscores its role in promoting gender equality and nurturing future generations. Project PARI stands as a testament to India's dedication to preserving its rich heritage while embracing modernity, paving the way for a developed and dynamic nation.
Compiled by Navya Saxena, EN Team.