Downtown artist Abdul Rashid keeps acrylic painting alive in Kmr

Jahangeer Ganaie

Srinagar, Sep 27 (KNO): A well-known acrylic painting artist from Srinagar is determined to keep his craft alive despite dwindling demand. Abdul Rashid Rather, a resident of downtown Bohri Kadal, has been painting for 35 years with a unique style that reflects the rich heritage of Kashmir.

Speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Rather said that acrylic painting was once a popular medium, celebrated for its vibrant colours and versatility. “However, with modern tastes shifting towards digital art and mass-produced decor, interest in hand-painted acrylic pieces has significantly declined,” he said.

Rather, who is also recognised for his landscape and oil paintings, has created works on the Lal Chowk flyover and sold pieces to foreign tourists. “While most of my acrylic painting customers come from outside the region, their numbers are decreasing daily,” he shared. “There are times when demand is so high that I work day and night to finish a piece, but there are also stretches when I don't see a single customer for months.”

“I have witnessed the art world change over the years, yet I firmly believe in the beauty of acrylic painting,” Abdul Rashid continued. “Even though the demand has fallen, I am committed to ensuring this art form doesn't vanish.”

His meticulous attention to detail and skillful blending of colours evoke the serene landscapes of Kashmir. However, he expressed concern for the future of the art form, saying that many young people are unwilling to learn it due to its low demand. “I haven't even encouraged my children to pursue this art, as it wouldn't provide a sustainable livelihood,” he admitted.

Rather recalled that even in earlier times of better demand, artists often received little compensation, with middlemen taking the lion's share of the profits. “The government must take steps to promote and preserve this art. This support is vital to keep it alive,” he said—(KNO).