Srinagar: The Ehsaas Foundation and Callisto Art & Culture, in collaboration with World Talent, hosted the 2nd International Online Art Competition, showcasing over 100 artists from nine countries. The virtual platform became a vibrant gallery of diverse artistic expressions.
Founded by Kashmiri artist Zahoor Kashmiri, Callisto Art & Culture aimed to foster cultural exchange. “This competition opens doors for global artists, especially from Kashmir, to shine internationally,” Zahoor said. Ehsaas Foundation, known for promoting Sufi values and social welfare, enriched the event’s cultural and social impact. Vice Chairman Burhan Nazir highlighted its role in positioning Kashmir as a hub for cultural diplomacy.
The jury, including Prof. Zargar Zahoor (India), Dr. Ceyhun Konak (Turkey), Carlos Miguel Ramirez (Mexico), and Daniel Gallegos Esquivias (Peru), praised the event’s multicultural blend of styles. Local curator Shahid Ali Khan noted its importance in sustaining creativity during institutional closures.
Kashmiri artists like Mehak Mubeen, Syed Mursaleen, and Riyan Rafiq showcased works rooted in local themes, while Indian artists such as Md Anirul Islam and Shabnam Rajpoot explored cultural and spiritual motifs. International contributions from Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Egypt, and Pakistan added diverse perspectives, ranging from Islamic calligraphy to contemporary narratives like Indonesia’s My Safe Place, My Warzone.
Curator Tasaduq Hussain emphasized the event’s role in keeping artists engaged during COVID-related closures. Beyond rankings, the competition celebrated hope, inclusivity, and global creativity, redefining Kashmir’s narrative through art.
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