City set for month-long immersive art experience

The Punjab Art Initiative — Amritsar Edition, supported by the Yuj Foundation, began its second edition in collaboration with ‘The Sacred Amritsar’ today at VR Ambarsar mall. This year’s theme of ‘Transcending Boundaries’ was evident from the different genres of artworks displayed across the mall, from sculptures to thought provoking installations and intriguing creations.

Sanjoy K Roy, Festival Director of the Jaipur Literature Festival and The Sacred Amritsar and Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, along with Sumi Gupta, curator of the Punjab Art Initiative-Amritsar Edition, inaugurated the festival. ‘Kala Car’, an installation by Sumit Dua, renowned muralist and artist from Amritsar, was also unveiled.

Over 200 installations, sculptures, paintings and photographs are on display at the festival. Standing out among them are the installations by students of Bhagat Puran Singh School for the Deaf, titled ‘Robotic Voices of the Planet’ made from waste. Installations by art students of BBK DAV College for Women and Khalsa College of Education, Ranjit Avenue, are also on display. The Basement Art Project showcases the works of student-artists of BBK DAV College for Women, guided by Lalit Gopal.

Over the next month VR Ambarsar will transform into a hub of artistic celebration, with installations, fine art, photography, exhibitions, music, art cinema, workshops, panel discussions, competitions and an artisanal bazaar on display.

“The Punjab Art Initiative-Amritsar Edition is a unique platform that nurtures emerging talent, providing young artists with the opportunity to showcase their work and engage with diverse audiences. The Sacred Amritsar’s collaboration with Punjab Art Initiative reflects a shared commitment to preserving the soul of the city, where creativity, heritage and community are interwoven,” said Sanjoy K Roy, Festival Director of The Sacred Amritsar.

Sumi Gupta said this edition of the festival was driven by a series of significant collaborations, each contributing to the festival’s broader vision. As part of a partnership with UNESCO, New Delhi, in the areas of STEM education and climate literacy, a stunning photo exhibition will be displayed based on their publication “A Braided River: The Universe of Indian Women in Science”, he said.

An international collaboration with the New York-based Arts for the Future Festival, powered by the United Nations Civil Society Conference, further amplifies the reach among the global audience, he added. The festival includes calligraphy, water colour painting, soft toy making and pottery workshops.

“As Amritsar’s only student-led public art festival, the Punjab Art Initiative continues to enhance the city’s cultural landscape. Through large-scale installations, sculptures, paintings, photography, music, poetry and dance, the festival transforms public spaces into sites of engagement and discovery. Creating spaces where history, creativity and contemporary expression converge, the festival strengthens the community’s connection to its cultural roots,” said Sumi Gupta.

Another highlight of the festival is the ‘Punjab in Focus,’ a breathtaking photo gallery showcasing the works of both renowned and emerging photographers as they attempt to capture the essence of the region through their lens. The exhibition aims at highlighting Punjab’s vibrant traditions, iconic landmarks and timeless beauty.

The summit promises several art engaging activities throughout the week and weekends too. Katran — a fashion show by students from International School of Design, Amritsar, will present innovative designs that blend traditional craftsmanship and global fashion trends. The Literature and Book Festival will put spotlight on emerging authors through book readings, panel discussions and interactive sessions. Aspiring writers can participate in workshops led by seasoned authors and publishers. The festival will host a vibrant three-day Art Bazaar, offering a platform for local and student artists to showcase their talent through paintings, sculptures, crafts and live art installations.

Collaborations with Brijesh Jolly, Creative Spot, Phulkari, Kitablovers, Timeless Amritsar and FICCI Flo will adding the local repertoire.

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