Shillong, Dec 29: The Thoh Shun Art Camp will launch a sculpture project honoring the state’s freedom fighter Kiang Nangbah on 30 December, during the celebration of the 163rd Kiang Nangbah Day.
Local sculptors Banteilang Hynniewta and Returnwell Sutong are preparing a sample sculpture, with the full colossal work slated for completion by year‑end, funded by well‑wishers.
Meanwhile, the five‑day Thoh Shun Art Camp concluded with an exhibition of artworks and a cultural programme celebrating the region’s heritage.
The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Janak Jhankar Narzari, eminent sculptor and former Principal of Kala Bhavan, Viswa‑Bharati University, Santiniketan, which was held from December 18 to 24 at the Moopynïeiñ Heritage Centre .
In his inaugural address, Dr Narzari praised the “topographical contours of the Khasi‑Jaintia environment,” likening them to the 19th‑century landscapes of Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.
He added, “Meghalaya is blessed with magnificent nature that could substitute an institution for aspiring artists to derive inspiration and motivation.”
The camp attracted fourteen participants: five artists from Santiniketan’s Kala Bhavan Praktoni and nine from Riti Academy.
The diverse group included Haren Thakur (Jharkhand), Thyiam Debendra Singh (Manipur), Kantha Reddy (Hyderabad), Paran Banti Devi, and Riti Academy artists Banteilang Hynniewta, Returnwell Sutong, Phaibhakupar Kharlukhi, Baniarjingmut G Lyngdoh Mawphlang, Clive Steven Kharphuli, Rickyshi Suiam, and Manoj Roy.
Dr Narzari’s own works expressed “resentment over the structural construction in the pristine natural heritage of Jaintia Hills,” while other artists responded to the landscape’s aesthetics.
The cultural programme featured folk music by Dalariti Gratel Kharnaior and her band, followed by performances by Rembrandt I Kharnaior and Refulgent Kharnaior, with Dr Narzari himself joining the dancing.
During informal interactions, participants praised the unique experience hosted by Riti Academy of Visual Arts. The programme is supported by NEEPCO Ltd, other donors, and includes commitments from the Arts and Culture Department, Government of Meghalaya, and the INTACH Meghalaya Chapter for continued engagement.
