Lucknow: Vice-Chancellor of University of Lucknow, Prof. J. P. Saini, inaugurated the newly renovated buildings of the College of Arts & Crafts under the Faculty of Fine Arts during a ceremony held on campus.
Established in 1892, the College of Arts & Crafts is among the most prestigious art institutions of undivided India, with its historic buildings dating back to 1911 during the British era. The renovation work was carried out with a grant of ₹511.67 lakh provided by the Uttar Pradesh government.
The restoration included the administrative block, Fine Arts department, Textile department, and Ceramic department, along with extensive refurbishment of the campus hostel. Additionally, infrastructure upgrades such as road construction and the installation of an open-air gym were also completed.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Saini highlighted the institution’s rich legacy, noting that its alumni have brought laurels to the university both nationally and internationally. He reaffirmed the university’s continued commitment to strengthening the institution’s academic and cultural stature.
Dean and Principal Dr. Ratan Kumar stated that six distinguished personalities associated with the college have been honoured with the Padma Shri award. He added that the college currently offers undergraduate programmes in painting, applied arts, sculpture, and textile design, along with postgraduate and research facilities.
He further informed that a proposal has been submitted to the Social Welfare Department for constructing a separate hostel for female students, while additional funding has been sought for the restoration of sculpture, photography, and craft sections.
The Vice-Chancellor also inaugurated the renovated hostel building and inspected the facilities along with invited guests, appreciating the quality of work carried out.
On the occasion, an international art exhibition was organized in the Fine Art Hall, featuring works by 15 artists from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The exhibition was curated under the guidance of Prof. Alok Kumar, who noted a steady increase in the number of international students from countries including Nepal, Afghanistan, Iraq, Mauritius, Egypt, Thailand, Iran, and Uganda.
During a press interaction, Dr. Ratan Kumar revealed that a comprehensive proposal worth ₹2015.14 lakh is under consideration by the government, which includes plans for new buildings, exhibition halls, staff residences, and hostel facilities.
The event was attended by university officials, faculty members, staff, and a large number of students, marking a significant step in preserving and enhancing one of the region’s key cultural and educational institutions.
