NTPC underpasses to feature wall paintings showcasing traditional art

Soon commuters will witness wall paintings showcasing heritage and traditional art along both sides the roads at the upcoming NTPC underpasses in the heart of Noida.

The Noida Authority has collaborated with the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art for a series of unique public art initiatives with the first of the installations set to open for the public in the second week of October.

"The first project under this association will be a painted mural installation within the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) underpass in Noida. The 640-metre underpass is located on the crossing of Sector 25A, 24, 33A and 22 and plays a crucial role in facilitating traffic movement in the area," according to a statement by the museum.

"This work educates the public about their arts heritage, showcases traditionally underrepresented local artists and also allows the general public to enjoy art in a public space, we hope to install more works like these across the city," Noida Authority chairman and CEO Alok Tandon said.

About the initiative, Kiran Nadar, the founder and chairperson of the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, said, "the collaboration is about making the arts more inclusive, allowing the public to engage with our country's artists on a daily basis. Whilst we have a dedicated outreach programme within the museum, we also want to take art outside of the museum space and bring it to the people".

This will be the first underpass in Noida with public art of this type and the paintings will stretch across the full 90-metre underpass on both sides.

The underpass will showcase rare 'Kalpavriksha' paintings by artists Laxman Singh and Kunal Jain, offering busy commuters some respite from the city's traffic.

"Honouring India's folk and tribal art, this installation celebrates life and also highlights the message of living in harmony with nature which is an integral part of Indian culture. The work depicts Kalpa Tree 'Kalpavriksha': The Sacred Wishing Tree, which has been an object of adornment and worship since ancient times.

"The few scenes from the mural include a celebration of Shri Ganesha Festival by the village folk and the story of the mythological white elephant King Airavata, who carries the Hindu rain God Indra," the statement said.

(With inputs from agencies.)