Synopsis
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the deep connection between art and culture, emphasizing that art is a vital expression of identity and community values during the World Art Day 2025 celebration, where he urged support for local artists.Key Takeaways
- Art is integral to identity and heritage.
- UNESCO recognizes art as a tool for peace and education.
- Support for local artists is crucial.
- Art transcends language, religion, and ethnicity.
- The seminar focused on the rich folk culture of the Mizos.
Aizawl, April 15 (NationPress) Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma expressed on Tuesday that there exists a profound connection between art and culture, emphasizing that art is a significant representation of identity, heritage, and community values.
"Before the advent of writing systems, we shared our narratives through illustrations. Among the Mizos, art has historically served to mirror our thoughts, beliefs, and traditions," he articulated.
The Chief Minister, who also acts as the Chief Patron of the International Association of Art (IAA) Mizoram, inaugurated the World Art Day 2025 celebration, along with the National Art Exhibition and Seminar on Art at the Information and Public Relations (IPR) department’s mini theatre.
This event was organized by the Mizoram government in partnership with IAA India.
Lalduhoma commended UNESCO’s acknowledgment of art as a means for peace, healing, and education, stressing that Mizoram’s distinctive culture and beauty should be documented and showcased through visual art.
"Our artists, filmmakers, writers, photographers, and performers are the ambassadors of our heritage," he remarked, calling for ongoing support for the creative community.
The Chief Minister underscored that art crosses the boundaries of language, religion, and ethnicity. "Art allows us to communicate universally. It is not merely about expression—it is about preserving and honoring who we are," he added.
Art and Culture Minister C. Lalsawivunga and IPR Minister Vanlalthlana also spoke at the event, alongside IAA India President Manaj Saha, Goodwill Ambassador Biblad Roy, and National Convener Lubna Hassan (via video conferencing).
World Art Day, observed worldwide on April 15 to celebrate the birthday of Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci, received official endorsement from UNESCO in 2019.
After the ceremony, the Chief Minister toured the Art Gallery at the IPR auditorium. The seminar's theme, held in the afternoon session, was "Rich Folk Culture of Resilient Mizos".
