For Nadeem Mushtaq, 36, the last 15 years have been an important period, as he discovered his artistic side during this time. A professional artist, Nadeem keeps on experimenting in his art as he sees no limit in being creative.
Hailing from Tangmarg, Nadeem has done his bachelors in fine arts from University of Kashmir, and masters in Visva Bharti University, Kolkata.
Nadeem is among the versatile artists of Tangmarg area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. So far he has done artwork in districts like Bandipora, Srinagar, Budgam, and Baramulla.”We all know that every art career is much underrated in Kashmir valley. It is mostly seen as a hobby and people don’t really believe you when you say that you have chosen it as your profession in your life. Talking particularly about visual art as a career option, I would first say that the term ‘visual is mostly misinterpreted among our youth. Visual in general is the art of making any piece of graphic artwork that is painted or applied directly to a wall, ceiling or other permanent substrate. So this needs to be first clarified and explained among us,” Nadeem said.
“I have not tied myself to a specific label in terms of what I do. I find labelling myself restricting. What I do is very free and liberating. I have been taught to pursue what fulfills my soul, to do what makes me happy at the end of the day,” he said.
Remembering his childhood days, the artist says, he was passionate about painting. “I used to make sketches of people and images of all living creatures. My family has been there like a huge rock. They encouraged me to fulfill my dreams in this creative field. The love for colors is never-ending,” he said.
Nadeem says that there is no scope for artists in Kashmir. Art is taught in private schools only but there are no government art teachers just like in other fields.
“Children at a young age are interested in painting but due to the nonexistence of government art teachers they are not able to show their creativity,” he said.
Nadeem says mural art which involves painting on walls, graffiti and street art is something that has become his forte now. He added that the artists have to work under contractors who give them low rates to paint buildings.Art is not painting buildings or sign boards but it is a vast subject that has its own language.
Nadeem said that it is really heartening to see people recognise and appreciate your work. “From day one when I started this profession, I have been getting a lot of appreciation and encouragement not only from my family members and friends but also from my clients,” he said.
Nadeem sadly said that there are far-flung areas where people are not fully aware of what art is all about. We as artists visited these areas to promote art and taught children some artwork. We also organized some painting competitions to strengthen their love for art.
While speaking on the purpose behind his Mural mission in Valley, Nadeem says that it is to Promote art, the culture, and the tradition of the Kashmir valley.
“There was no language in older days, people used to communicate through art but nowadays art is about to decline due to the selfish ness of authorities.
I have painted city walls to make areas appear more beautiful and also done artwork in tourist areas to express the beauty and culture of our valley,” he said.
According to Nadeem, many artists in Kashmir are struggling for jobs. The direct authority must be given to the artists and not the contractors who provide them work he says.
The authorities are not paying attention to the creative artists who through their art can beautify cities and villages and provide string messages through art.
The only thing that cause hurt and haunts his head is the negative approach of government towards artists. He believes that it is very unfortunate that the local people do not find it interesting in any means.
Nadeem wants people to come and learn art so that they can give wings to their creativity. He has taken initiatives to teach children so that this colourful subject flourish s and it does no decline.
Nadeem has been lucky in terms of support he has received in pursuing his passion. People around him, especially his parents provide him full support and encourage his artwork.
“I think people should do what they love to do,” Nadeem said.
Nadeem’s message to the youngsters is that they should indulge themselves in whatever work they like to do and should never give up on their dreams.
