Colours, Voices and Stories Breathing Life into Awadh Art Festival, says SAKSHI PRIYA
Art has a way of bringing people together, sparking conversations and creating moments that stay with us. The 7th Awadh Art Festival did just that, offering a space where creativity thrived and stories came to life through every brushstroke and sculpture. With 94 artists presenting their work, the festival became a meeting ground for diverse voices, each piece carrying its own essence, emotions and experiences.
The festival, guided by a thoughtful curation, brought together tradition and contemporary influences. While it has long been a platform for senior artists, this year introduced a fresh perspective by showcasing artists making a mark in the primary art market. This shift brought a dynamic energy, allowing visitors to see the evolving nature of Indian art and its ever-expanding horizons.
The inauguration was led by Lithuania’s Ambassador to India, Her Excellency Diana Mickeviciene, alongside Jyoti Kathpalia, Dr Seema Bhalla, Dr Sushma K Bahl, Lipika Sud and Biman Das. The festival, founded by Arka Pradhan with advisor Mrs Ratan Kaul, was organised in association with the Inner Wheel Club of Ghaziabad – Dist 301.
Beyond the artworks, the festival created moments of connection. A guided curatorial walk by Jyoti A Kathpalia allowed visitors to step into the minds of the artists, while a thought-provoking talk on legacy and value by Priya Kapoor explored the deeper significance of artistic expression. The demonstration on Patachitra, with its intricate storytelling on palm leaves, was a reminder of the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Every part of the festival held meaning, drawing people in and making them engage with art in a personal way. Conversations flowed, perspectives shifted and there was a sense of discovery in every corner. It was an experience to take forward, something to remember and return to in thought, long after the last artwork was packed away.
