SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 04: From AI-generated artworks to symbols of ‘Azadari,’ the 11-day-long ‘Mashq e Arba’een – Dar’ke Azadari’ – Art, Photography, Calligraphy, and Poetry Exhibition concluded at the Kashmir Arts Emporium here on Wednesday.
The 12th edition of the exhibition was co-organised by the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, with Edraaak and was special as the exhibition was conducted under the World Craft City, Srinagar, and UNESCO Creative Network City, Srinagar.
Curated by S. Iliyas Rizvi, a Craft and Heritage Consultant, the exhibition began on August 25 and explored different dimensions of mourning and Azadari in Kashmir. It offered a unique insight into how the people and the spaces resonate with the mourning traditions during the months of Muharram and Safar. “The humble tribute to Imam Hussain (AS) and the Martyrs of Karbala through art and other creatives has provided an opportunity to study the multi-dimensional aspects of the observance of mourning traditions, particularly in Kashmir,” said Rizvi.
The exhibition, over its 12 editions, has showcased over 60 participants and more than 600 works. One of the highlights of this year’s event was the AI-generated artwork. Coinciding with Srinagar’s recognition as a World Craft City, special displays focused on the signs and symbols of Kashmiri Azadari. Among them was “Seel,” a highly symbolic woollen thread worn by Zakirs during Marsiya Kwhani, unique to Kashmir. Rizvi emphasized the importance of these symbols, saying, “These symbols and signs of Azadari in Kashmir have remained undocumented. The exhibition has opened an opportunity to reach the world and introduce these unique crafts of Kashmir. These are not only spiritual but also rare in appearance.”
Another significant exhibit was the “Hand of Fatima,” alongside AI-aided creative works on Arba’een by Maroof and his creative team. The “Mashq” on the wall, a traditional water carrier made of leather, was another unique crafted product that drew attention.
Wiqar Bashir, a visitor, said he was particularly impressed with AI-generated artworks. “The AI-aided depiction of this unforgettable tragedy has a very different sensory impact on the viewers. The play of light and colours gives altogether a dramatic and moving experience of the sequence of events on that fateful day. It added to the many varied expression forms already displayed in this well-curated exhibition,” he said.
