Following the astounding success of its debut contemporary Indian art show, PHDCCI organized the 2nd edition of “Expression: A Contemporary Indian Art Show”.  The three day event starting from April 30th till May 2^nd, 2025 was inaugurated by Shri Yashpal Sharma, a renowned Bollywood actor at PHD House, New Delhi.

Actor Yashpal Sharma in his address congratulated PHDCCI for organizing such a meaningful event to promote artists and their work. He emphasized the importance of working on one’s uniqueness and individual talent. He added, while it is good to be inspired, one must not copy others; only by focusing on personal uniqueness and talent one can truly progress. Everyone has a spark within, and one should never consider oneself inferior.

The Actor further expressed the thought of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and discussed that the bond of humanity is the greatest of all. He added that while some things may seem insignificant the value lies in time. He cited examples like Charlie Chaplin and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who turned their weaknesses into strengths by listening to their inner voices something many people tend to ignore.

Dr. Sachidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) congratulated the artists to have brought out their creativity to the world. “Every person is creative in some way, but it is the artists who have the courage to bring their creativity to the outside world”. He also took this opportunity to share his thoughts about the possible threats of AI. Our habits are becoming increasingly AI oriented.

While some paintings take months or even years to create, AI can produce them within minutes. Dr Joshi further emphasized the efforts of artists like Ravi Verma and Nandalal Ghosh, whose work took immense hard work and mental exercise to produce. The real threat he warned is not today but lies ahead, 5 to 20 years from now when everything will move to the cloud it will be difficult to identify original work. This, he said is a serious threat to artists.

He also stressed that it is the responsibility of artists and society to preserve our inherent creativity, talent, intellect, and motivation to create something new. He urged that artistic expression should become the voice and moral conscience of society, and we must all work to make society aware of the future dangers of a digital world.

Anuradha Goel, Chairperson, PHD Family Welfare Foundation, who is at the helm of PHD’s family welfare initiatives, including 25 centers across the country where around 5,000 students are being skilled and also being taught painting and art.  She expressed her hope to see those children growing up to become an artist and presenting their works here one day.  Ms Goel further added that while AI is useful, one should only use it as much as needed and must not become completely dependent on it.

Ms. Sonali Jain, Co-chair, PHDCCI Education Committee, and Vice Chairperson, Sumermal Jain Educational & Welfare Society (Regd.) expressed that literature, music and art hold great importance in a person’s life. She discussed that art is the only form of expression that promotes dialogue without conflict. The empathy and compassion that art brings cannot be brought by a bureaucrat or a politician. She added that art is the most humane way to build a community where people can relate to their culture and ethos by showcasing their work through this medium.

She further explained how PHDCCI has been working for the progress and development of industry for the past 120 years. She expressed hope that through this initiative, PHDCCI would continue to promote the art industry in its true essence and wished for the event to be a sounding success for the artists.

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI exclaimed that PHDCCI is delighted to welcome Mr. Yashpal Sharma one of the finest actors of Hindi cinema. He added that the actor’s journey from stage to screen is inspiring and full of motivation especially for artists coming from tier 3 and 4 cities. He emphasized that the contribution of such talented artists will further promote the art community and boost their confidence.

Further he mentioned that PHDCCI which was established in 1905 had recently celebrated its 120th anniversary. He said that the presence of such a legendary artist at the art show would inspire many budding artists. He expressed hope that stalwarts like him would continue to support and motivate such initiatives by PHDCCI in the future as well.

Ms. Preeti Wadhwa Acclaimed Singer & Director, Virva International Pvt. Ltd., said that art is a language and a bond between human beings, behind every piece of art is an artist who is a storyteller. She applauded the initiative by PHDCCI to provide a platform to such artists and expressed that it would encourage them to continue their remarkable work. Lastly she called upon everyone to celebrate this beautiful expression of art. 

As one of India’s oldest and most respected industry bodies, PHDCCI has been a pillar of support for economic growth, industrial development, and policy advocacy for over 120 years. Now, it has extended its reach beyond commerce, lending its voice and support to the immense artistic and creative talent that lies untapped across the country.

A three day event, scheduled from April 30 to May 2, 2025, Expression is a vibrant and thought provoking contemporary Indian art show that celebrates the diverse perspectives and diverse range of paintings of emerging and established Indian artists. It showcases a curated selection of artworks that push boundaries, spark conversations, and inspire new ways of thinking. The exhibition aims to highlight the vibrant and dynamic nature of Indian art, exploring themes that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, social issues, and personal narratives. And provide them with a platform to reach a wider audience for their artworks thereby empowering them economically.

The second edition saw the participation of over 15 artists from all over the country including notable names like Ms. Kalyani, Ms. Abhipsa Pradhan, Ms. Sunita Lamba, Mr. JP Singh, Mr. Kedaram Viswanathan, Mr. Rangroop Ranjeet Singh, Mr. Ramchandra Pokale, Mr. Ramonkar, Ms. Shivraj Singh.   Through painting, sculpture and mixed media, the artists explore themes that resonate with modern India, such as identity, culture, social justice, and the human condition. The show provides a platform for artists to express themselves freely, sharing their unique visions and experiences with a wider audience.