A painting exhibition at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra. Picture by UB Photos

May 18: Dreams often die young in the hallowed world of art, where a Husain may sell on the strength of the man’s reputation and a budding artist could remain unappreciated.

Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, the city’s hub of culture, is trying to set things right for young artists in search of a platform by organising the second edition of the national junior artists’ exhibition. The monthlong event, beginning July 5, promises to not only shift the spotlight on budding talents but also attract sponsorship.

“This is the second time we are organising such an exhibition for junior artists,” a Kalakshetra official said. “The idea is to provide a platform for the young talents of the Northeast along with those of the country. The region is a treasure trove of good artists who hardly get a chance to showcase their works.”

The exhibition is open to artists from 18-30 years and divided into four sections ? painting, graphics, drawing and sculpture.

“Last year, scores of young artists of the region participated in the exhibition and many of them were awarded certificates of excellence,” the official said.

The Kalakshetra will be issuing prospectuses and forms till June 15. The last date for submitting artwork for the exhibition is June 25.

The cultural centre is also in touch with branches of the Lalit Kala Akademi to ensure that all states are adequately represented.

“The Kalakshetra’s endeavour is a really noble one. Young artists hardly have the wherewithal to organise solo or group exhibitions. Sponsors, too, do not come forward to organise exhibitions for young talents. Once our work is displayed alongside artists from across the country, many avenues will open up,” said 17-year-old Rasna Sarma, a painter from Guwahati.

The works to be displayed at the exhibition will be selected by a panel of judges comprising renowned artists of the region.

“Since it is a national-level exhibition, our effort will be to showcase the best work in all the sections,” the Kalakshetra official said. “Experts in all four genres of art will select the works of art. We do not want to compromise on quality.”

Of the exhibited works, 10 will be awarded certificates of excellence. “As of now, we have no plans to award cash prizes to the winners, but if sponsors turn up, we will welcome them.”

Elated at the prospect of his students getting a platform to exhibit their works, Jebin Ghosh Dostidar, principal of the Government College of Arts and Crafts, said: “Exhibiting the works of young artists is a must. Otherwise, it will be difficult to know the volume and kind of work being done by them. Such exhibitions are the first step towards competing at the national level and honing their skills.”