''Art is an expression of thought process. Visual art can promote better knowledge and understanding among different cultures and society,'' the Governor said. Commenting on the problem of unemployment being faced in the region, the Governor iterated the need for various agencies to work together to create opportunities. ''Art is an area that can provide employment opportunities for talented youths,'' he added.
He further urged Lalit Kala Akademi to make efforts to create outlets so that artists from the northeastern region may be able to get favourable returns for their work.
Speaking on the occasion, Art and Culture Minister P C Zoram Sangliana, described the 8th National Art Festival as a new chapter in the history of promotion of visual arts in Mizoram. With the regional centre of Lalit Kala Akademi having just concluded its Regional Painters Camp in Aizawl, Zoram Sangliana congratulated art lovers in Mizoram, particularly a handful of Mizo artists who have been working tirelessly to promote visual and other forms of fine arts in the state for these latest developments taking place in Mizoram. He also welcomed participants from outside the state and expressed hope that more programmes would be organised in Mizoram in future.
The event, first-of-its-kind in Mizoram, was being organised by Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, in association with Mizoram Art & Culture Department.
The inaugural function witnessed performances of Oddissi by Indian classical dancer, Kavita Dwiedi among others. About 46 artists, including four from Mizoram, will participate in the weeklong festival.