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JAMMU: The University of Jammu has added another significant milestone to its journey of academic and creative excellence as an alumnus of the Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA) has earned recognition at one of the world’s most prestigious international art platforms.
The Institute of Music and Fine Arts (IMFA), University of Jammu, has expressed immense pride over the selection of its alumnus, Mr. Skarma Sonam Tashi, a 2019 Bachelor of Visual Arts (Painting) graduate, for participation in the prestigious 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia 2026.
Expressing immense pride over the achievement, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai said that the true strength of an institution is reflected in the accomplishments of its students and alumni, as their success becomes a reflection of the University's academic and creative journey. He said that whenever students trained within the University go on to create a mark at national and international platforms, it becomes a matter of collective pride for the entire institution.
Prof. Rai observed that the University of Jammu has consistently worked towards creating an environment where young minds are encouraged to think beyond conventional boundaries and pursue excellence across diverse fields. He stated that such accomplishments strengthen the University's growing academic and creative identity and strengthen its commitment towards nurturing talent capable of making meaningful contributions at the global level.
"From the classrooms of IMFA to one of the world's most prestigious art platforms, this journey is not only a personal achievement for Mr. Skarma Sonam Tashi but also a proud moment for the entire University fraternity. Such milestones inspire other students to dream bigger and further strengthen our belief that institutions create their strongest legacy through the achievements of their alumni," he added.
The Department of Painting, Institute of Music and Fine Arts, also described the achievement as a proud moment for the institution. Faculty members observed that from the classrooms of IMFA Jammu to the historic venues of Venice, Mr. Skarma’s journey reflects the vision nurtured by the Institute — artistic expression that remains rooted in cultural traditions while engaging with wider global perspectives. They stated that his work “Echoes of Home” not only represents a personal creative journey but also contributes meaningfully to contemporary artistic discourse through its engagement with themes of memory, identity and belonging.
Mr. Skarma’s artwork titled “Echoes of Home”, exhibited at the India Pavilion, Arsenale, marks an important moment in contemporary Indian art and reflects the increasing presence and recognition of young Indian artists on global platforms.
The India Pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale, titled “Geographies of Distance: Remembering Home”, features the works of five Indian artists at the Arsenale venue. Curated by Dr. Amin Jaffer, the pavilion will remain open from May 9 to November 22, 2026, representing India at one of the world’s most celebrated international art exhibitions.
The significance of the India Pavilion was also reflected during the inaugural ceremony, where Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, described the pavilion as an important representation of India’s contemporary artistic landscape. He observed that the pavilion brings together India’s contemporary art scene, indigenous materials and the creative expressions of distinguished artists, highlighting the country’s evolving artistic identity at a global platform.
The achievement reflects the quality of artistic training and creative environment nurtured at the Institute of Music and Fine Arts and highlights the University’s continued commitment towards encouraging innovation, cultural expression and artistic excellence among students.
From the classrooms of IMFA Jammu to the historic artistic spaces of Venice, Mr. Skarma’s journey stands as an inspiring example for young artists and students aspiring to make a mark at national and international platforms. His work, rooted in the traditions and cultural landscape of Ladakh while carrying a global artistic expression, reflects the spirit of creativity and exploration encouraged within the University. The University fraternity congratulated Mr. Skarma Sonam Tashi on this remarkable achievement and wished him continued success in his future artistic endeavours.