Srinagar, Aug 4 (KNS): Paint maker Asian Paints on Tuesday launched two public art initiatives in Kashmir, including the transformation of 40 traditional shikaras on Dal Lake into floating artworks and a large mural at the University of Kashmir, aimed at celebrating the Valley's cultural heritage.
The initiatives Aks-e-Kashmir and the Kashmir chapter of Donate A Wall-- have been undertaken in collaboration with the St+art Foundation and XXL Collective.
Under the Aks-e-Kashmir initiative, 40 shikaras have been redesigned by four contemporary artists -- Owais Ahmed, Sheehij Kaul, Zahra Javed and Shweta Sharma -- with each artwork depicting different aspects of Kashmir's culture, traditions and craftsmanship.
The company said the artworks have been created using its range of paints, wood finishes and furnishing materials to enhance the appearance of the iconic boats that ply on Dal Lake.
Asian Paints also unveiled an 11,500-square-foot mural on the façade of the Allama Iqbal Library at the University of Kashmir under the tenth edition of its "Donate A Wall" public art programme.
Designed by Srinagar-based architect and artist Zoya Kashmiri and painted by local artists, the mural is inspired by the university's motto, "Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya" (From Darkness to Light), and seeks to celebrate knowledge, imagination and Kashmir's cultural heritage.
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Speaking at the launch, Asian Paints Managing Director and CEO Amit Syngle said the initiatives were intended to celebrate Kashmir through its people, traditions and artistic legacy.
"Through Aks-e-Kashmir and the Kashmir chapter of Donate A Wall, we wanted to create something that belongs to the Valley and reflects its living heritage," he said.
St+art Foundation and XXL Collective co-founder Arjun Bahl said the projects were aimed at taking art beyond conventional spaces and making it a part of everyday public life while showcasing Kashmir's cultural identity.
University of Kashmir Vice Chancellor Professor Nilofer Khan said the mural would enrich the university's academic environment while celebrating the region's cultural heritage.
Asian Paints said the University of Kashmir is the 24th public space to be transformed under its Donate A Wall initiative, which has been implemented across 18 cities over the past decade.(KNS).