Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir [India]Jan 28 (ANI): Kashmiri artist Masarat Jan is breaking stereotypes by reviving Kashmiri culture and heritage through the dying art of papier-mâché.
A resident of Lal Bazar, Srinagar, the 50-year-old artist has made a name for herself in what is commonly perceived as an art form dominated by men and has won three state awards.
Paper Mache is a combination of crafts and fine arts from the Kashmir Valley.
It is an art form that is not only popular in Kashmir but is in huge demand across the world.
The art involves making various shapes such as vases, trays and boxes by applying paper pulp to moulds, drying them, polishing them and finally painting them intricately with multiple colours.
Speaking to ANI, Jaan said, “I developed an interest in the art form during my teenage years and learned it from my maternal grandfather. I later married into a family of papier mache artisans and now we are taking this art forward.”
The award-winning artist, who is trying to train more women in the art form, further added, “I am trying to teach more women so that they can make their livelihood conscious and independently pursue their support families.”
He also urged the government to provide better monetary support and opportunities to the veteran artistes so that they can pass on their skills to the coming generations and keep the Kashmiri heritage alive.
Her husband, Maqbool Ahmed, who is also a prominent papier-mâché artist and has won several awards, supported his wife with her dream and urged people to support women around them to pursue artwork did.
“My wife wanted to pursue her passion even after marriage, so I wholeheartedly supported her dreams. I urge everyone to help their wives and daughters fulfill their dreams like me. (ANI)
This report has been auto generated from ANI News Service. ThePrint is not responsible for its content.