Despite undergoing extensive renovation under the Smart City project, the Mahatma Phule Art Gallery in the Shalimar area of Nashik stands deserted and closed, casting a shadow over the city's vibrant art scene. With an area spanning 1800 square meters and a makeover costing ₹3.66 crore, the gallery was expected to usher in a new era of artistic expression. However, incomplete air conditioning and lighting works have left the gallery abandoned, overrun by grass and neglect.
The closure of the Mahatma Phule Art Gallery has dealt a blow to aspiring artists in the city, who now find themselves bereft of a platform to showcase their talent. While private art galleries charge exorbitant fees, often beyond the reach of budding artists, the municipal gallery demands a daily fee ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹40,000, making it financially unfeasible for many.
Experienced artists lament the missed opportunity, emphasizing the need for accessible and affordable exhibition spaces to nurture local talent and promote the cultural heritage of Nashik. The plight of the Mahatma Phule Art Gallery underscores the urgent need for government intervention to revitalize the cultural landscape. As renowned painter Srikant Nagare aptly puts it, "If the painting is not a business, it will generate income from the exhibition and recover the fees paid to the gallery."
Despite efforts to address the issue, including appeals to the Smart City authorities, the gallery remains shuttered, leaving artists and art enthusiasts disillusioned. With the closure of the Mahatma Phule Art Gallery symbolizing a lost opportunity, the city's artistic community continues to grapple with the absence of a dedicated platform to showcase their creativity and contribute to Nashik's cultural tapestry.
