The need for an art gallery in Manipur to display the artworks of various artists in the state was stressed upon by Babina Group chairman Dr Thangjam Dhabali on Tuesday.
Dhabali was addressing the inaugural event of the 14th Annual Arts exhibition organised by the Arts Society Manipur at Imphal Art College.
Dhabali asserted that art exhibitions are crucial in promoting artists and their artworks. Exhibitions are the only outlet for artists to communicate with the public; they work throughout the year to produce their unique visions on canvas, he added.
"As there is no permanent gallery in the state, various artworks never get to see the light of day,” Dhabali said.
The chairman exuded confidence that artists of Manipur will be able to sustain themselves and gain notoriety if a proper facility is established. He assured that a permanent art gallery will be included at the new five-star hotel which will be constructed at Hotel Imphal campus.
He extended gratitude to Manipur Arts Society for organising the exhibition and stated that the exhibition would provide much needed exposure for artists across the state.
Art Historian A Hemanta Singh, Arts Society Manipur president Th Devendra Singh among others were present at the inaugural event.
Altogether nearly 26 paintings, six graphic arts and three sculptures are displayed at the exhibition.
During the event, the Arts Society Annual Arts Award 2023 for painting medium was awarded to Khundongbam Sadananda while the Honourable Mention Award for pen and paper medium was awarded to Yengkhom Santosh Kumar.
