The picturesque and culturally vibrant valley of Jammu is poised to welcome art enthusiasts and collectors from around the globe once more. Skyview by Empyrean, a 22-acre mountain retreat nestled in the Sanget-Patnitop region, is set to host the second edition of the interactive art retreat, ‘Sama-Vaya,’ from August 22-25.
This unique event, organized by renowned art consultant and curator Anupa Mehta, with support from crafts curator Anu Chowdhury Sorabjee, brings together celebrated artists and craftsmen from across India. ‘Sama-Vaya,’ meaning ‘union’ in Sanskrit, encourages collaboration and the exchange of ideas, fostering the creation of masterpieces inspired by the breathtaking surroundings. The artists will work both individually and in pairs, capturing their unique interpretations of Jammu, its environment, and the luxurious ambiance of Skyview by Empyrean.
Their creations will be showcased in an exhibition at Skyview by Empyrean on August 25. Anupa Mehta, Art Curator of Sama-Vaya, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The response to the premier ‘Sama-Vaya’ art retreat last year was overwhelmingly positive. We had to come back with another edition to celebrate all forms of art against the beautiful backdrop of Jammu! I’m delighted to have crafts curator Anu Chowdhury Sorabjee bring in her crafts expertise this year. The talented group of artists this year come from both urban contemporary settings as well as indigenous areas. Their diverse backgrounds, skillsets, and creative perspectives promise to add a punch of flavors to the retreat, making the exhibition all the more interesting. I’m looking forward to seeing the different shades of Jammu and Skyview by Empyrean interpreted through their eyes and on to their canvasses on August 25.”
The roster of talented and acclaimed artists for this year includes Lado Bai (Bhil art), Kritika Joshi (Phad painting), Saroj Shyam (Gond painting), and contemporary Indian artists Rachita Dutta, Rachna Badrakia, and Neha Lavingia. Adding a local touch, Jammu-based artists Suman Gupta and miniature artist Sohan Singh Billawaria will also participate, enriching the retreat with their unique skills and perspectives.
Owais Altaf Syed, Director of Skyview by Empyrean, highlighted the retreat’s commitment to promoting art and culture, saying, “Skyview by Empyrean is not just a premium property that offers top-class hospitality. We are a group with a heart that is always looking at different ways to make a difference, be it popularizing Jammu as a top destination, empowering the local communities or doing our bit to promote passions like sports and art for the greater good of all. We are delighted to host ‘Sama-Vaya on our property this year yet again and look forward to having the artists stay with us and be inspired to create some of their best art works while in-residence drawing from the serene surroundings and nurturing atmosphere we cultivate here.”
Skyview by Empyrean, with its seamless blend of luxury, adventure, nature, and premium hospitality, provides the ideal setting for such a grand art gathering. Nestled in one of the most scenic locations in the Sanget-Patnitop region, it offers stunning views of the majestic Pir Panjal range and is just an hour’s drive from the famous Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple at Katra. The retreat promises a unique experience for both artists and visitors, immersing them in the beauty and cultural richness of Jammu.
