Morung Express News The first International Art Festival coinciding with the Hornbill Festival 2016 organised by the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Nagaland in collaboration with SMD Foundation and Jungle Killol Foundation was inaugurated on December 5 at State Academy hall Kohima. The art exhibition which began on December 1 will continue till December 10. “We believe art has the potential to influence positive changes in the society and we make it our commitment to see that we realize its potentials and benefits in every possible manner. Creativity is not just a hobby or a profession, but it is a way of life to be adopted by everyone in the society.” said Vilalhou Noudi, Art Executive, Art and Culture during the inauguration. Believing that art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to inspire and to motivate, Noudi hoped that the Festival will go a long way to bring changes and benefits on Art and the Naga society. A vital responsibility of the department of Art & Culture is to facilitate art promotion at different levels, and the exhibition is a big step towards widening the scope of art promotion not only in our state but also in the NE region as a whole, mentioned Vevo Sapuh, Director, Art & Culture who also mentioned that the first State Art Exhibition was organised by the Department of Art and culture in the year 1975. And since then various art activities has been organised every year to identify and promote artistic talents in the State. “There is abundant potential for art to flourish in the state and the need is felt for consistency of art promotional programs in the state to deliver optimal benefits of art to the people.” said Sapuh who hoped that the art festival will be an experience of new inspirations for artistic pursuits in the state. 16 artists from various states in India as well as Naga artists like Vithuse Temi and Vineizoto Tase are displaying their artwork at the Art festival.
