World renowned artworks were showcased in unusual surroundings on Saturday 18th June, when the Sikh Art Exhibition had its official opening at the Khalsa Fitness gym in Bradford.
The main objective of the project was to allow those who attend the gym to get a better understanding of Sikh inspirational figures and gain an overview of the ‘spiritual guidance’ the Sri Guru Granth Sahib provides in Sikh’s everyday lives.
Over 300 adults and children attended the jam-packed event.
Each piece of art was accompanied with a detailed description to enable the observer to be inspired and spiritually uplifted, whilst working up a sweat at the gym.
The gym itself is part of the Gudwara complex and Sam Singh, a volunteer there said: “We had the idea a year ago to brighten and spruce the place up a bit.
“We hunted for artworks around the world, obviously this took some time. Everything exploded from there.”
He added: “We wanted to give our community a little something else. To inspire people to have steel and determination so they themselves can make it as artists. It’s also good to throw spirituality into the mix.”
“We have a vast selection of artists out there now. It’s going against the grain a bit, but we want to inspire the next generation of budding artists.”
The artists that attended were Inkquisitive, Raj Singh Tattal the Pentacularartist, LOHA Designs, Art by Rupy, Art Sikh, Taran3D, Gng Bradford and IminderArts.
The event had two objectives, one was to open the exhibition and the other was to encourage young people into the world of art.
On the opening of the event, three artists gave brief presentations on how they became interested in art and the challenges they faced.
This was followed by a drawing session for the kids with guidance from the artists, before the permanent art exhibition in the gym was finally opened.
“Coming from an Asian background, kids are encouraged by their parents to be doctors and lawyers,” Sam added, “but we want to show that you can try and open other doors.
“Your child can reach these stratospheres too, with hard-work and determination.”
