Aurangabad, Feb 5: Shakama Connect, an alumni association of the Government College of Art (GCA), submitted a memorandum to chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, demanding that an Art Cluster be set up in the old building of the GCA to provide a platform for aspiring artists. The association expressed its readiness to extend all possible cooperation for its ideation and conceptualisation, and will also reach Mumbai soon for further discussions.
The Nizam-era structure ‘Janana Mahal’ in the GCA old building at Kile Ark is currently lying in ruins. It was used for art education from 1971 to 2003. This dilapidated building, a palace in Mughal era, is now in a state of disrepair due to neglect. While the GCA has moved to a new building, the old campus is now being misused by anti-social elements for nefarious activities. This year, the GCA is celebrating golden jubilee. As this renowned fine art institution has played a crucial role in shaping the future of many famous artists around the world, authorities must pay attention to preserve the old building. Moin Shaikh, vice-president of Shakama Connect, said the college’s old building, Janana Mahal, is not just a building but a rich history of the city.
The CM, an art lover himself, should set up the Art Cluster including art gallery, library, exhibition centre, amphitheater, conference hall, Kalagram, tourist facility center, research and information center as well as a platform for organizing cultural festivals, urged the delegation including Kishor Nikam and Deepak Arya.