Art is the most beautiful form of expression. Many artists have expressed ideas through paintings and sketches. Their artwork has been appreciated in every nook and corner of the world. Artist uses the magic of fingers and imagination to create the best art. It is not easy to become an artist but it takes a lot of willpower, creativity, and hard work. To appreciate the effort of artists,15 April is celebrated as world art day. The theme for the year 2023 art day is “Art is good for the health”. This day is cherished to make people understand the significance of art in our lives. Art speaks volumes without uttering a single word. Where the world is filled with violence, art accentuates peace and harmony. It does not need words but delivers beautiful messages in silence. Artists are treasures to every nation. In our valley artists are not given much recognition and appreciation. They have been neglected for decades. The brilliant old artists have grown old and their paintings are still in dark rooms. The dust has settled on those beautiful sketches. Justice has not been done to their art. In modern Kashmir, art must be revived and youngsters who are passionate about this field must be supported to every extent. Though the youth of Jammu and Kashmir is very talented there are only a few job vacancies in the field. The artists’ career gets spoiled as there is no platform available. Some artists wish to set up their own art galleries to earn their livelihood. Due to weak financial conditions, they are not able to plan their career, and their dreams get shattered. Nowadays, artists are roaming here and there in search of work. Some artists are painting ordinary boards and earning their livelihood. We can’t believe highly talented artists requesting work. They earn very little money and can’t take their career to next level. Many artists create beautiful sketches and paintings which can represent our valley. Every day we see youth posting their artwork on social media sites. In fact, channels are promoting their talent through paid promotions but that is not enough. They only get encouragement but don’t find jobs. To promote art in Jammu and Kashmir, platforms must be created for artists hailing from different districts. Art seminars and competitions must be conducted in every educational institution. This will boost the confidence and talent of thousands of artists in the valley.The administration must create jobs for artists so that they transfer their talent to the next generation.The authorities must arrange art contracts at good rates so that they can be financially independent. It is the art that defines cultural diversity. Artists are precious gems and we must not waste their talent. Our valley must promote the artists so that their artwork reaches to the world.
