Art Meets Open Sky: NDMC Brings Srijan Gallery To Life

Time of India

11-07-2025

New Delhi: A civic body's responsibility extends beyond maintaining cleanliness in the city; it includes enhancing the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces to draw public interest and appreciation, said New Delhi Municipal Council chairman Keshav Chandra while inaugurating the revamped Srijan Art Gallery at Nehru Place on Friday.
The open art gallery was given a new lease of life recently to celebrate the works of talented artists at the accessible Nehru Park, where people can watch their work in serenity. "We planned that every Sunday, painters, sculptors, graphic artists, cartoonists and photographers would come together to create, share and showcase their work in an atmosphere of creativity and collaboration," said Chandra, adding that Lutyens' Delhi already has several works of renowned artists displayed in public places.
Working along similar lines, the chairman also revealed plans to set up a sculpture park in Nehru Park soon, which will exhibit the sculptures of prominent and budding artists.
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One of the key highlights of Friday's event was the live painting sessions by Padma awardees and celebrated artists. Among those present were Rameshwar Broota, the head of department at Triveni Kala Sangam since 1984 who is known for his powerful figurative works; Padma Shri Biman Bihari Das and Jai Prakash Lakhiwal; and Harsh Vardhan Sharma, former chairman of National Gallery of Modern Art.
All of them offered full cooperation to NDMC in its art endeavour.
Initially named Srijan Artists' Corner, spread over 172.50 sq metres and established in 1999, it has now been transformed into the modernised Srijan Art Gallery. It includes a dedicated entry gate, a curated art display corner, landscaped gazebos, improved public seating arrangements and an expanded open area of approximately 15,225 sq metres.
"The place also features an elegant, well-lit, shaded and weather-protected display area, making it an ideal venue for regular exhibitions, performances and creative engagements throughout the year," said NDMC vice-chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal.
The civil renovation work carried out at the site included the installation of Gwalior stone flooring, construction of stainless steel railings, replacement of polycarbonate roofing, installation of benches, steel dustbins, signage, and comprehensive repainting and structural improvements across the gallery area, he added.
Chahal said a comprehensive plan to promote art and culture in NDMC areas was already in place. "A dedicated art & culture department was established in May 2025, with a budget allocation of Rs 40 crore. It is working on the development of a sculpture art district, a sculpture park, organising symposiums and art events frequently. To support the department, an urban arts and culture forum has been constituted," he added.