Shillong Street Art Festival, an ongoing project started by a group of struggling artists, has so far seen the participation of big names in the art form in India. The two pictures of murals (left), created by Bengaluru-based artist Anpu Varkey on the wall of a private building, are part of the project. “The artist titled it ‘Hailstorm’ as on the day she started painting, the city witnessed hailstorm and heavy rain,” says Sanjib Roy aka Yantr.
When the project started on March 8 on the occasion of Women’s Day, there were 10 local artists. Now, eight more have joined. With this, the platform for struggling artists has expanded. “Four artists from outside the state have participated so far. Four more will join soon,” says Roy.
The artists informed that the project will be in phases and the second phase may commence from November-December.
When asked about support from the government, the artists said it has given them permission to paint murals on government buildings. However, there was no commitment to provide funds.
“We collect money from friends and well-wishers. We are using weather-proof paints which are really expensive. But we are determined to make a long-lasting mark,” say the artists emphatically.
Four buildings have already been beautified but the untimely rain is delaying the completion of the first phase.
The group says while the festival will boost the morale of young artists, the creations will add value to the city’s tourism potential. “Street art has its unique way of attracting people, especially those from outside the state. These creations can be pitched as sites of tourist interest,” the artists assert. ~ NM
