Distinguished guests present at the Opening: Ms. Rakhi Sarkar, Ms. Munmun Sen, Sri Niranjan Pradhan,
DPI Dr. Nimai Chandra Saha,, ( Prof. Rudraprasad Sengupta could not be present due to ill health)
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain
Today, we stand at a remarkable moment in history—celebrating years of artistic excellence, education, and innovation. This moment began 160 years ago. This institution has not merely been a school; it has been a home, a sanctuary, and a creative powerhouse for generations of artists who have shaped the world with their vision.
Since our founding in 1864, when the Directorate of Public Instructions took this school under its wings, this institution has been dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Every brushstroke, every sculpture, every design created here carries forward a legacy that has stood the test of time.
Like a great masterpiece, our journey has been composed of countless individual strokes—of dedication, perseverance, and passion. We have witnessed eras of change, embraced new forms of expression, and upheld the timeless values of artistic integrity and innovation.
Over the years, our students and faculty have redefined the world of art and design. From groundbreaking exhibitions to revolutionary techniques, from classroom discussions to global recognitions—this institution has been a beacon for those who dare to dream and create.
We owe this success to visionary leaders, devoted educators, passionate students, and supportive patrons, all of whom have played a vital role in shaping this institution’s illustrious legacy. Today, we honor every artist who walked these halls, every teacher who guided a hand, and every mind that dared to imagine.
It is important to mention that the grand architecture of the main building of the college, which is nearly 150 years old, has finally got the much needed structural and infrastructural renovation. It is a sincere effort to preserve and protect the heritage structure after decades of neglect and ravages of time.
The Academics of the institution has also seen a sea change in the recent past. While the undergraduate course was altered from the existing annual course to a Semester system under the ‘Choice Based Credit System’ (CBCS) in 2018-19; the New Education Policy brought in the ‘Curriculum & Credit Framework’ (CCF) in 2023-24. The MFA course was also brought under the folds of CBCS since 2023-24 with the addition of ‘Mural Art’ to the existing 8 specializations. The incoming students in BFA and MFA have risen from a 100 to 124 and from 64 to 84 respectively in the last two years. The change in the system including the curriculum has gone through a gestation period and will surely deliver results in the years that will follow.
The previous UGC accreditation of the college was put in place as far back as in 2009. The slumber has been dealt with and the attempt towards reaccreditation was achieved. In spite of all the hurdles, the fresh accreditation process was completed in March 2024. The credit goes to all those who have contribution immensely and cleared the debris of inaction of the past years and jump-started this much needed effort. This will take the institution towards a richer future.
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
While we celebrate 160 years of excellence, we also look forward to the future—a future where this institution continues to be a cradle for creative minds, a space where tradition meets innovation, and where art remains a powerful force in shaping the world.
As we embark on the next chapter, let us remember the words of Henri Matisse: “Creativity
The masterpiece of our institution is still unfolding, and each of us is a part of its grand design.
Here’s to 160 years of artistry, vision, and education! May we continue to ignite passion, cultivate talent, and create a future where art remains an enduring legacy.
Let’s celebrate this milestone with the same spirit of creativity that has defined us for generations!
