By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Cyril V D Diengdoh, Director of Tourism has said that, ‘Artists and photographers are the ambassadors of tourism for the state’ during a ceremony in the city on Saturday.
Diengdoh handed the Cyrstal Gayle Memorial Award 2019 to Dr Debraj Debbarma for excellence in visual arts for his landscape photography.
In his speech, Diengdoh appreciated the endeavour of Debbarma in capturing the breathtaking landscapes of the state. Commenting on the awardee, Diengdoh said, ‘’The passion and commitment of Dr Debraj Debbarma is commendable for venturing into the untouched and unblemished locations of the state and showcasing the breathtaking wonder of nature that Meghalaya has to offer’.
Diengdoh also said Meghalaya is a world class tourism destination that can synergise with various aspects of tourism promotion.
Some of the achievements of Debbarma being considered for the award is his extensive landscape photography and that he received accolades from prestigious institutions such as indiaphotographyawards.in, NiSi filters India, D J Memorial beside others. His pictures were also published in reputed journals including Smart Photography.
Debbarma has also ventured into aerial photography and astrophotography, (Contd on P-10) ‘Artists, photographers are…
while one of the most significant discoveries which have proven successful is his creative experiment with custom-made footwear that he designed specifically for the perilous monsoon terrain of Meghalaya.
The Crystal Award for Excellence in Visual Arts is being instituted by Riti Academy of Visual Arts in memory of Crystal Gayle Kharnaior and the chairman, Raphael Warjri stated that Debbarma was an undisputed nominee for his outstanding performance in photography.
In his observation, Warjri stated that several natural landscapes are being damaged by rampant human intervention of artificial structures perpetrated by the authorities on the pretext of providing comfort and convenience to visitors.
As part of the presentation, Debbarma exhibited two videos entitled Nongstoiñ Shillong Cherry Blossom and A Glimpse of Meghalaya to impress upon the authority for the great potentials that Meghalaya have and the need to sustain the immaculate condition of various landscapes throughout the state.
Family members of late Crystal Gayle Kharnaior, members of Riti Academy of Visual Arts, Langkupar War and Dr Madeline Tham, convener, Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage, Meghalaya chapter were also present at the ceremony.