India’s Project PARI: Celebrating Art at the World Heritage Committee Meeting in New Delhi

The Ministry of Culture in India has launched Project PARI (Public Art of India) to coincide with the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting in New Delhi from July 21-31. This initiative, executed by Lalit Kala Akademi and the National Gallery of Modern Art, aims to showcase India’s rich artistic heritage through public art installations.

According to a Ministry of Culture press release, India has a long history of public art that reflects its cultural and spiritual diversity. From ancient rock-cut temples to vibrant street art, the country’s landscapes are adorned with artistic marvels. Project PARI seeks to bring forth public art that draws inspiration from this heritage while incorporating modern themes and techniques.

The first intervention under Project PARI is taking place in Delhi, coinciding with the World Heritage Committee Meeting. The project aims to democratize art by transforming urban landscapes into accessible galleries, ensuring that artistic experiences are available to everyone. This inclusive approach fosters a shared cultural identity and enhances social cohesion.

More than 150 visual artists from across the country are participating in the project, creating wall paintings, murals, sculptures, and installations. The artwork includes styles such as Phad paintings from Rajasthan, Thangka painting from Sikkim and Ladakh, miniature painting from Himachal Pradesh, and many more.

The proposed sculptures for Project PARI include tributes to nature, ideas inspired by the Natyashastra, Gandhi ji, and World Heritage Sites like Bimbetka. Women artists have also played a significant role in the project, highlighting Bharat’s NARI SHAKTI.

Join the celebrations by taking a selfie with a Project PARI creation and sharing it on social media with #ProjectPARI. More details on the artworks will be available soon.