“Art enhances children’s imagination, sensitivity, and confidence”
Lucknow – Indian art traditions have long been celebrated worldwide for their grandeur, symbolism, and spiritual depth. Among them, the Ajanta murals hold a special place, enriching Indian aesthetics while leaving a profound mark on global art history. To pass on this timeless tradition to the younger generation, Lucknow Public Schools and Colleges, under its Aesthetic and Cultural Development Programme 2025–26, in collaboration with Florescence Art Gallery, Lucknow, organized a six-day Ajanta Mural Painting Workshop at the Lucknow Public World School campus. The workshop concluded on Thursday with an exhibition of students’ artworks, followed by a felicitation ceremony where all participants received certificates from the chief guest.
The workshop began on August 28, 2025, and concluded in the presence of writer and art critic Alok Parashar, who was the chief guest. In his address, Parashar said, “It gives me immense joy to be here today. I sincerely thank the organizers for offering us the opportunity to witness and encourage children’s artistic talent. Art is not merely about colors and lines; it gives flight to our imagination, expresses our emotions, and connects us to our culture and traditions. Every time a child paints, colors, or creates, they are shaping their personality. I urge everyone to encourage children in art and allow them the freedom to shape their future according to their interests. The greatest key to success in life is working in alignment with one’s passion. Without interest, no artwork can come alive. Art nurtures children’s imagination, sensitivity, and self-confidence, helping them grow into better human beings.”
The workshop was conceptualized by Neha Singh (Director – Academics & Innovation, LPSC and Director, Florescence Art Gallery), who emphasized that nurturing artistic sensitivity in youth is not only about creativity but also a cultural responsibility. She said the aim was to connect students with the philosophy of Ajanta art, while fostering imagination, discipline, and an understanding of intricate artistic structures.
Bhupendra Asthana, Curator of Florescence Art Gallery, described the initiative as a “living platform for students to experience the visual richness of Ajanta and to engage with cultural heritage in a meaningful way.” He added that the workshop was not limited to technical training but also helped students develop philosophical and cultural consciousness — a true confluence of tradition and creativity.
Supporting this vision, Navneet Kaur, Principal of Lucknow Public World School, noted, “Art is not just a medium of drawing and painting; it also guides students’ mental discipline, cultural grounding, and imagination.”
Rajesh Kumar, Head of the Art Department, described the event as a meaningful initiative that transformed students’ curiosity into creative expression.
The six-day workshop saw enthusiastic participation from students of classes 5 to 10, under the expert guidance of Anshu Saxena (Art Teacher, LPWS). Students were introduced to the unique features of Ajanta murals, including ceiling designs, mural compositions, narrative styles, and symbolic themes, through hands-on practice.
The initiative highlighted the commitment of Lucknow Public Schools and Colleges towards holistic education — where academic learning is integrated with cultural heritage, aesthetic sensibility, and creative thinking. This workshop not only gave students technical skills but also inspired them to connect deeply with the philosophical and cultural essence of Indian art.
By bridging the past with the present, the Ajanta Mural Workshop served as a step towards preparing a future generation that is creative, sensitive, and rooted in cultural values.
