The Standpoint

FROM THE MIND’S EYE OF THE DIFFERENTLY ABLED

By

Nirmita Kochhar

Physical handicap can never hinder the success of those with strong determination and will. And the same has been justifiably personified by the paintings and art works of various differently-abled artists and painters participating in an exceptional art exhibition named BEYOND LIMITS.

The exhibition which began 3^rd October at Sundar Nagar, Delhi showcases the works of 15 artists from across states like Bihar, Ladakh, Chennai, Allahabad, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Kolkata among others.

Organised by a Delhi-based NGO, Family of Disabled (FOD), the event has been extremely popular among the art circuit and remains awaited for the fresh talent it promotes. In the past, the exhibitions have been graced by the presence of eminent personalities including the likes of Nandita Das, Gul Panag, Nafisa Ali and Shovana Narayan.

A tiger painting by Imamuddin, a hearing impaired artist from Ranthambore, was among the finest pieces of art on display.

The event was initiated in 2001 with a view to provide a platform to the fresh talent and financial security for the artists in the initial stages of their careers. Till 2008, it was being organised every alternate year due to the limited resources but has been made an annual one now courtesy the huge funds raised from last year’s exhibition and positive response is expected again.

Considering the fact that it has happened 7 times since its commencement and has association with over 70 artists from throughout the country, the event has been reasonably successful in achieving both its target objectives.

“The highest cheque paid by us amounted to more than Rs.50,000 to a hearing impaired artist from Rajasthan. We are keeping our fingers crossed for this time”, said a beaming Preeti Johar, the COO of the host NGO, Family Of Disabled. When probed about future endeavors, she added “looking at the overwhelming response, we are planning another exhibition from 26 November to 3 December for celebrating the Disability Week and The World Disability Day”.

The exhibition asserts that the abilities of the disabled are indeed worthy of praise and respect. The initiative gives them new life by providing a platform that could showcase the immense talent that the differently-abled possess.

The programme is scheduled to continue till the 15^th of this month.