Meet pebble artist from Ganderbal whose art ‘connects with nature, people’

Ganderbal, May 15: Meet Manzoor Ahmad a 34-year-old pebble artist hailing from the village of Guzarbal in this central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district. After losing interest in studies, he found “art calling” him and “started creating beautiful pieces using pencil waste”.

“But it was during the unrest in the valley that I discovered my true passion for pebble art,” Manzoor told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO). 

With a deep love for nature, Manzoor uses his art to express his feelings and connect with others. “Art is a way of communicating,” Manzoor explains. 

“It's a wonderful way to connect with nature and for people to connect with each other.” His latest creation ‘Pastel Box’, showcased at his shop near the police station in Ganderbal on the inner link road of Guzarbal, highlights the beauty of nature. 

He draws inspiration from the natural world around him and often creates images that are inspired by what he sees. One of the main attractions at his shop is a statue of a ship that he created using a group of pebbles. 

“Creating pebble art is not an easy task, especially when it comes to finding the right colours and shapes of pebbles,” Manzoor said, adding that he is joined by his friends who help him in his search. 

“We often travel to various places in Kashmir to find the perfect pebbles for his art. Despite the challenges, Manzoor's pebble art continues to improve, and I believe that it will soon be recognised internationally,” his friend Aasif told KNO. “His artwork is truly magical. 

His pebble creations are flawless, and one can't help but be drawn in by the conversation that seems to be happening within them,” Asif elaborates. Manzoor said his dream is to create opportunities for youth to engage in creative projects and promote a livelihood of peace, dignity, and order. 

‘Pastel Box’ was created as a platform for him and his friends to express their feelings through art and inspire others to do the same. Through his art, Manzoor hopes to bring a sense of serenity to the world and give a new platform to the artists of Kashmir. 

When asked about pebble or stone art in Kashmir today, Manzoor said, "Kashmir has been an epicentre of art and artists for centuries, and even today, the conditions cannot suppress the artists or their work. 

However, in Kashmir, people often pursue mainstream professions like medicine or engineering because there is little exposure to the arts. 

I hope my colorful pebble art will give me a new platform and inspire other Kashmiri youth to explore their creativity."—(KNO)