A delight to witness artistic expressions of seed that we laid in promoting different visual and performing arts: Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia

The Apeejay Stya Art Festival 2024, themed Creative Cascades, was inaugurated on December 2 at the prestigious Kamalnayan Bajaj Art Gallery in Mumbai. This event, organised by Apeejay Education, brought together a dazzling showcase of artistic brilliance, reflecting its enduring commitment to nurturing talent and creativity over five decades. 

The event was graced by the presence of Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, who inaugurated the exhibition. She was joined by Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Promoter, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, and other notable figures from the art and education fraternity, including Ms Neeta Mahindra, Mr Ridhi Dogra, and Ms Kriti Gupta. 

Faculty and students from Apeejay Education institutes and the esteemed JJ School of Art, Mumbai, also added to the event’s vibrancy. Their shared enthusiasm underscored the deep connection between education and the arts that Apeejay Education nurtures across its 26 institutes in India. 

The event began with the ribbon-cutting by Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia. This was followed by the ceremonial lamp-lighting by Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia and Mr Nishant Berlia.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia said: “As our first exhibition in Bombay (Mumbai), featuring the artistic works of students and faculty from the three institutes – Apeejay Institute of Design, Apeejay College of Fine Arts as well as the School of Design and Visual Arts from Apeejay Stya University, It was absolutely a delight to around and see the various expressions of art presented in different forms, mediums, and colours right through the exhibition. There is no doubt that the kind of work displayed here is among the best I have seen in many places.”

“With a deep sense of fulfilment and happiness to find that the seed that we laid in promoting, preserving, as well as helping artists of different visual as well as performing arts to flourish has really not only taken root, but now we see what beautiful results have flown from there. It will, I think, bring about a demand for having more such exhibitions in Bombay (Mumbai) in times to come. Not only for our students and faculty but more importantly also that the many people who were invited to this exhibition not only expressed their appreciation but hope that this is something that they will continue to see in the years to come,” Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia shared.    

The art festival is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of innovation and artistic dialogue. Visitors were captivated by the diverse array of artworks, which carried subtle yet profound messages. The use of varied media added dynamic layers, allowing the audience to connect with the artists’ thoughts and emotions. 

Apeejay Education’s legacy in education and art 

The festival aligns with the vision of Dr Stya Paul, Founder-Chairman, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group. Known for his contributions as an educationist, industrialist, and philanthropist, Dr Stya Paul believed in empowering individuals through quality education. The event exemplifies his ideals by providing students and faculty with a platform to express their creativity and connect with the larger art community. 

The exhibition is open to the public from December 2 to December 7, 2024, between 10:30 am and 7 pm. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in this rich artistic experience at the Kamalnayan Bajaj Art Gallery in Mumbai. 

A resounding success 

The opening day saw enthusiastic participation from artists, educators, and art enthusiasts. The event not only celebrated artistic achievements but also reinforced Apeejay Education’s dedication to integrating art and education as a cornerstone of holistic development. 

By creating a space where creativity thrives, the Apeejay Stya Art Festival 2024 has set a benchmark for art exhibitions, inspiring future generations to explore and embrace the boundless world of imagination and innovation.