Culture Ministry initiates Project PARI for 46th World Heritage Committee meeting

Team L&M

On the occasion of the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India between 21-31 July, Ministry of Culture has initiated the Project PARI (Public Art of India).

Aimed at stimulating a dialogue, reflection, and inspiration, contributing to the dynamic cultural fabric of the nation, the project is being executed by Lalit Kala Akademi and National Gallery of Modern Art.
Project PARI brings 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.

India has long been a vibrant centre of artistic expression, with its rich history of public art reflecting the country’s cultural and spiritual diversity. From ancient rock-cut temples and intricate frescoes to grand public sculptures and vibrant street art, Bharat’s landscapes have always been adorned with artistic marvels. Historically, art has been deeply intertwined with daily life, religious practices, and social customs, manifesting through various modalities such as dance, music, theatre, and visual arts.

The representation of art in public spaces is particularly significant, reflecting the nation’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. The democratisation 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 daily lives.

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 that includes 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 among others. 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.
Significantly, women artists are an integral part of Project PARI and their participation in large numbers is a testimony of Bharat’s NARI SHAKTI.