When Suraj Mukhi and Simrat Sharma asked me to pen a few words on women’s empowerment and art I wondered what could possibly be the true interconnection between the two. I had a rough understanding that empowerment by definition, if there was one, was a process by which women became able to organize themselves to increase their own independent right to make choices and to control resources which could help in challenging their own subordination. But Art has no gender bias. It is a truly a great leveller of man and woman and makes no gender distinction or difference. I think that only when one is told that this painting, sculpture, photograph, drawing, print is by a women artist would an art visitor know. The impact of the work would reign. The playing field I am sure remains on the same plinth. To my mind Amrita Shergill was the earliest symbol of women empowerment in the India of the thirties, inspiring many generations to follow. We have today an extraordinary galaxy of women painters many of whose works would be on display at the Artscapes exhibition showcasing currents and crosscurrents of contemporary modern Indian art changing the way laymen and professionals view women artists. I am glad to be first hand witness to this resurgence. I have often wondered on the story of Grandma Moses who in her late seventies took to painting folk art seriously which was easier on her hands than needlework. She died in 1961 aged 101. She made her first painting from house paint. Truly inspiring. Her husband long forgotten. I am not ashamed to admit that I envy all those of you who live life so enchanted a life on sheer talent. Put your painting kit in a duffel bag and proceed to conquer the world through the magical world of art

India is proud of her socio-cultural diversity that gets abundantly depicted in myriad art forms that thrive in different regions of the country. Many government and other organizations are working with dedication to help these art forms flourish, with special focus on women artist. It is heartening to learn that Artscapes is one such non-profit, non-government organization that strives to foster excellence in various dimensions of art by providing a vibrant platform to artist, art lovers, art students and critics. The organization is doing commendable work by bridging the gap between artist and art lovers through art shows, events, seminars, camps, workshops and other activities.

I am happy to know that Artscapes is organizing an All-India women Artists’ Contemporary Art Exhibition at the Panjab University, Chandigarh from March 29 to April 4, 2012. The exhibition would go a long way to promote the cause of women artists, many of whom have to fight against various social inequalities to excel in their chosen art forms.

I convey my best wishes to the organizers and all participants for a grand success of the Art Exhibition.

I thank Artscapes for giving me the opportunity to look at the artworks of women artists from all over India. It gave a glimpse of the similarities as well as diversities of practices followed by various artists.

I noticed great sense of perseverance and commitment in the works all women artists who participated in the competition. Although it has been difficult for women to pursue art for many reasons, it does give them high degree of satisfaction due to it’s creative nature. The works I saw were for sure executed with a lot of skill and hard work. They also reflected the love and devotion which had gone into them.

I wish to convey my best wishes to all the participants who came from far off places to be a part of the competition.

I congratulate Artscapes for their efforts to bridge the gap between the artists and art lovers.

These endeavors will certainly bring good results and new opportunities for young artists to fulfill their dreams.