Serene environment of Rashtrapati Bhavan will help to nurture young minds: Jogen

Jogen Chowdhury is the first artist to stay at Rashtrapati Bhavan under the "in-residence scheme for writers and artists" launched last year by the President.

The renowned artist, who had earlier worked as "Keeper of Art" at Rashtrapati Bhavan, said the initiative is encouraging for young artists and writers to work under the calm surroundings of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

" It is some kind of recognition by the President of India, the head of the country to encourage an artist. So, this is something great on part of the President. He is thinking about the writers, painters and artists of different discipline. So this is something important that he is thinking of them. This is more important,"said Jogen Chowdhury, Artist in-Residence at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Kolkata-based Chowdhury, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, will stay at Rashtrapati Bhavan till August 14.

The In-Residence Scheme for Writers and Artists seeks to provide an environment which will inspire creative thinking and rejuvenate artistic impulses.

" The goal of starting this programme of artist In-residence has been to invite both senior and established artists as well as upcoming artists to come and live in Rashtrapati Bhavan to derive inspiration from the surroundings, to have a taste of life in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The idea is to recognize their contribution, to honour them and encourage them to do even better for India," said Venu Rajamony, Press Secretary to the President of India.

Several paintings of Jogen Chowdhury already form part of the Rashtrapati Bhavan art collection.