The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu initiated a week-long Basohli painting workshop on Monday. The program provides students with direct learning opportunities from GI-certified women artists. It takes place at the institute’s Jagti campus and concludes on December 14 .
Workshop Objectives
The workshop focuses on the 300-year-old Basohli artistic tradition. Director B S Sahay highlighted the importance of hosting master practitioners. He stated their devotion, skill, and cultural memory preserve the aesthetic soul of Jammu and uphold India’s artistic heritage. The initiative marks a cultural milestone for the Jammu and Kashmir region.
The primary aim is to strengthen cultural literacy among participants. It also works to sustain India’s intangible heritage. The program aligns directly with the National Education Policy’s (NEP) vision. This vision emphasizes integrating Indian knowledge systems into contemporary education settings.
Curriculum and Organization
IIM Jammu’s Anandam: The Centre for Happiness, along with the Painting Club, organized the event. The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Regional Centre Jammu, provided association and support. The curriculum offers a comprehensive engagement with Basohli art techniques.
Participants receive instruction in several key areas. These include traditional pigment preparation methods. Students also learn sketching, stylisation, and intricate border design. Training covers the creation of divine iconography and final detailing processes. These practical sessions ensure a hands-on learning experience for all attendees.
Expert Artists
The workshop features a dedicated team of GI-certified women artists. These artists bring extensive experience in the Basohli miniature tradition. Their expertise covers various aspects of the art form, from material preparation to finished works.
Leading the instruction is Sohan Singh Billowaria, an award-winning senior artist. State awardees Rajni Bala and Sonam Jamwal are also part of the teaching ensemble. Their collective knowledge ensures high-quality instruction for students. The artists are recognized for their precision in using natural pigments, handcrafted paper, and sacred iconography.
Basohli Painting Characteristics
Basohli painting holds distinction as one of the earliest Pahari miniature traditions. Its visual characteristics include bold outlines, which define its subjects. The art employs radiant natural pigments, contributing to its vibrant appearance. An expressive narrative depth is also a hallmark of these paintings.
Beyond its aesthetic qualities, Basohli painting serves a functional role. It acts as a visual archive of regional identity. The art depicts local mythology and expressions of devotion. It captures elements of the Himalayan imagination, preserving cultural narratives through visual form.
Broader Impact and Archival
The initiative reinforces the integration of Indian knowledge systems. This direct application supports the principles outlined in the National Education Policy. The workshop incorporates multiple learning formats beyond technical instruction. These include storytelling circles that explore the narratives behind the art.
Live demonstrations provide insights into the artists’ working methods. Mindful art reflections are also part of the program, organized under Anandam. IGNCA plays a vital role in documenting the workshop. This documentation ensures the national archival of the Basohli heritage, safeguarding it for future study and appreciation.