Iqbal Library at KU Gets Landmark Mural Under Donate a Wall Initiative
Project Expected to Boost Cultural Tourism and Spotlight Local Craftsmanship
Srinagar|Aug, 4:Kashmir’s centuries-old artistic traditions have found a new canvas on the waters of Dal Lake, where 40 brightly painted shikaras now narrate the Valley’s stories through contemporary art. In a first-of-its-kind public art initiative, Asian Paints, in collaboration with St+art Foundation and XXL Collective, on Tuesday unveiled ‘Aks-e-Kashmir’, transforming the iconic wooden boats into floating works of art.
Simultaneously, the University of Kashmir’s Allama Iqbal Library received a landmark 11,500-square-foot mural under the ‘Donate A Wall’ initiative, bringing together art, heritage and public spaces in a bid to promote Kashmir’s cultural identity and tourism.
The two initiatives seek to celebrate the Valley’s rich traditions while providing a platform for local artists and artisans. Organisers said the projects are expected to enhance Kashmir’s appeal as a cultural tourism destination by offering visitors a unique blend of art, heritage and community engagement.
Under Aks-e-Kashmir, forty traditional shikaras have been redesigned by contemporary artists Owais Ahmed, Sheehij Kaul, Zahra Javed and Shweta Sharma, each depicting different facets of Kashmir’s identity, including its folklore, craftsmanship, architecture, festivals, landscapes and everyday life.
Using specialised paints, wood finishes and fabrics, the artists have retained the traditional character of the boats while transforming them into floating galleries that celebrate the Valley’s living heritage.
The second project marks the tenth chapter of Donate A Wall, Asian Paints’ flagship public art initiative. The mural, designed by Srinagar-based architect and artist Zoya Kashmiri and executed by local artists in collaboration with St+art Foundation, adorns the façade of the University’s iconic Allama Iqbal Library.
Inspired by the University’s motto, “Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya” (From Darkness to Light), the mural reflects themes of knowledge, imagination and Kashmir’s cultural legacy. Painted with weather-resistant materials, it is designed to withstand changing climatic conditions and remain a permanent artistic landmark on the campus.
Speaking at the launch, Amit Syngle, Managing Director and CEO of Asian Paints Ltd., said the initiatives were conceived to celebrate Kashmir not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its people, traditions, craftsmanship and enduring cultural heritage.
He said the projects offer residents and visitors an opportunity to experience the Valley through its stories, art and traditions while creating meaningful public spaces.
Talking to Kashmir Horizon, CEO Syngle said the initiative forms part of the company’s broader effort to connect its brand with India’s diverse cultural heritage through public art. He said projects such as Aks-e-Kashmir have the potential to boost cultural tourism by offering a distinctive artistic experience on Dal Lake.
“Every shikara tells a different story of the Valley,” Syngle said, adding that each of the 40 boats represents a unique aspect of Kashmir’s identity—from its traditional crafts and folklore to its architecture, natural beauty and festivals. He expressed hope that the initiative would generate greater recognition for local artists and artisans while encouraging more culture-led public art projects in the region.
Arjun Bahl, Co-founder of St+art Foundation and XXL Collective, said the projects reflect the belief that art should extend beyond galleries and become part of everyday public life. While the mural at the University of Kashmir continues the legacy of the Donate A Wall initiative, the reimagined shikaras provide a new public canvas rooted in the Valley’s cultural traditions, he said.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Professor Nilofer Khan, welcomed the collaboration, saying the mural enriches the university’s academic environment while celebrating Kashmir’s artistic and cultural heritage. She said the artwork would inspire students and visitors alike while reinforcing the University’s commitment to promoting creativity and cultural expression.
Bringing together artists, artisans, boat owners and local communities, the initiatives underscore the growing role of public art in preserving cultural identity, revitalising public spaces and showcasing Kashmir’s creative legacy to a wider audience.
