Art Takes Center Stage at the 18th Jaipur Literature Festival
The eagerly awaited 2025 edition of the iconic Jaipur Literature Festival will unfold from 30th January to 3rd February at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur. Celebrated as the world’s grandest convergence of books and ideas, the festival once again places art in the spotlight, showcasing it as a vital thread of creative expression.
A Dynamic Exploration of Art and Policy
The session on “The Economics of Art: Policy, Innovation, and Inclusion” will feature a distinguished panel comprising H.E. Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, UAE Minister of State; Scott McDonald, CEO, British Council; Gary Tinterow, Director, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; and Max Hollein, CEO, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Moderated by Sanjoy K. Roy, Festival Producer and Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, this discussion will delve into the interplay of government initiatives, funding, and public-private partnerships in cultivating sustainable creative economies.
Engaging Stories from Artistic Legacies
Renowned art historian Benoy K. Behl will explore the murals of the Ajanta Caves in conversation with Festival Co-Director William Dalrymple, offering insights into their historical and global significance. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Benjamin Moser will spotlight Dutch art and culture in two sessions: “The Upside-Down World: Meetings with the Dutch Masters”, a dialogue with art historian Gary Tinterow, and “It’s Dutch to Me”, co-presented with the Embassy of the Netherlands, alongside Iranian-Dutch author Kader Abdolah.
Art Book Launches and Celebrations
The festival will witness the unveiling of two significant books on art. Devi and Her Avataras, authored by Alka Pande, Bulbul Sharma, and Vayu Naidu, will explore feminine creativity in Indian mythology and art, with a discussion led by Malashri Lal. Meanwhile, Harsha Dehejia’s The Third Eye of Indian Art will dive into the spiritual essence of Indian art, presented in conversation with Benoy K. Behl.
The Ojas Art Award 2025 will honor Vinita Sharma and Ajay Sharma, Jaipur-based miniature artists, for their dedication to traditional art forms. Gond artist Ram Singh Urveti, the Artist in Residence, will unveil a grand 8×12-foot commissioned painting at Durbar Hall and create live artwork during the festival.
Visual Installations and Exhibitions
Visual art installations will amplify the festival’s aesthetic appeal. Artist Veer Munshi will present a striking piece inspired by Kashmir’s papier-mâché and kalamkari motifs, reflecting themes of resilience and identity. Photographer Vicky Roy will showcase his powerful series Ability in Disability, featuring over 20 images that celebrate the lives of individuals with disabilities across India.
The Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Trust, a long-time festival collaborator, will present innovative artworks by students and art groups from Rajasthan, creatively reimagining the state’s cultural heritage.
Voices of the Visionaries
Reflecting on this year’s artistic offerings, Anubhav Nath, Art Advisor to the Jaipur Literature Festival and Director of Ojas Art, said, “The Jaipur Literature Festival has always celebrated the intersection of art, literature, and ideas. This year’s lineup showcases indigenous artistry alongside innovative expressions, providing a platform for voices that inspire and challenge.”
Festival Producer Sanjoy K. Roy added, “The Jaipur Literature Festival is a wellspring of creative energy, celebrating the transformative power of art and its ability to connect and inspire. It’s a space where books, words, and diverse artistic traditions come together in a vibrant tapestry of cultural expression.”
As the festival gears up for another monumental edition, the art showcase promises to captivate audiences, reflecting the timeless beauty and innovation that define the Jaipur Literature Festival.
