The Lalit Kala Akademi, the national academy of art under the Ministry of Culture, has announced 20 awards for outstanding artworks at the 65th National Exhibition of Art. This annual exhibition is among India’s most significant platforms for contemporary visual artists to display their work and connect with audiences and collectors across the country.
The 65th edition received exceptionally strong participation from the artistic community. The Akademi processed 6,175 artworks submitted by 2,495 artists from 27 States and Union Territories. A two-tier jury system was used to identify the best works. The first jury selected 270 artworks for display at the exhibition, representing diverse artistic practices including painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing and mixed media. The second jury then selected 20 award-winning artworks from these 270 works.
Key facts
- Total submissions: 6,175 artworks from 2,495 artists
- Participating States and Union Territories: 27
- Artworks selected for exhibition: 270
- Lalit Kala Akademi Awards announced: 20
- Award-winning mediums: painting (12 works), sculpture (4 works), drawing (1 work), printmaking (1 work), mixed media (2 works)
- Painting techniques among awardees include oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, watercolour and mixed media
- Sculpture materials include terracotta, ceramic, marble, teak wood, copper and welded metal
About the National Exhibition of Art
The National Exhibition of Art is a flagship annual programme of the Lalit Kala Akademi established to recognise and promote contemporary Indian visual art. It has become an important event in India’s art calendar, attracting artists seeking national recognition and art enthusiasts, collectors and institutions looking to engage with contemporary artistic practice. The exhibition showcases the range and depth of artistic expression across India and demonstrates how artists continue to experiment with traditional and new materials, techniques and conceptual approaches.
Selection process and jury evaluation
The Akademi employs a structured two-stage jury system to ensure fair and rigorous evaluation. The First-Tier Jury reviews all submissions and selects artworks that meet exhibition standards and artistic quality criteria. These 270 selected works form the core of the exhibition and represent diverse artistic expressions from across the country. The Second-Tier Jury then examines this curated collection to identify the 20 most outstanding works deserving the Lalit Kala Akademi Awards. This layered approach ensures that award recipients represent the highest standards of contemporary Indian art.
Award-winning artworks and artists
The 20 awardees work across various mediums and styles. Painting is the most represented category with 12 award winners using techniques such as oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, watercolour and mixed media approaches. Sculptors comprise four awardees working with materials ranging from traditional stone and wood to ceramic and welded metal. Individual award winners also include practitioners of drawing, printmaking and mixed media involving unconventional materials. The winning artworks reflect contemporary concerns including urban life, environmental issues, spirituality, memory and human connection, demonstrating the breadth of themes engaging Indian artists today.
Impact on India’s creative economy
Beyond recognition, the National Exhibition of Art plays a significant role in supporting India’s visual arts sector. The exhibition creates economic opportunities for artists by enabling direct sales of artworks to collectors and institutions. It increases professional visibility for participating artists, opening doors to commissions, gallery representation and further opportunities. By bringing together artists, audiences, collectors and cultural institutions in one space, the exhibition strengthens networks within India’s art ecosystem and contributes to a more sustainable environment for visual artists to practice and earn from their work.
What this means for you
If you are an artist, the National Exhibition of Art represents a prestigious national platform to gain recognition and reach potential buyers and collaborators. Award winners receive official acknowledgment from India’s premier art academy, which enhances professional credentials and market value. For art students and enthusiasts, the exhibition offers insight into the current state of contemporary Indian art and exposure to diverse artistic practices. For collectors and institutions, it provides a curated selection of significant contemporary works and identifies emerging and established artists worth following.
What happens next
The exhibition will display the 270 selected artworks, with the 20 award-winning pieces receiving special recognition. The Lalit Kala Akademi has acknowledged all awardees and participating artists while noting the contribution of the juries in the selection process.