Sahil Manzoor, a talented sand artist hails from Danamazaar Safa Kadal. With his exceptional artistic skills Sahil portrays the essence of Kashmiri culture through his mesmerizing sand creations. Sahil holds a B-Tech degree, his father works as a carpenter. Sahil sees sand art as more than just a craft, for him it is “poetry in motion.”
Sahil’s remarkable journey from the humble streets of Srinagar to becoming a celebrated sand artist showcases the persistent enthusiasm and determination in him. Throughout his life, art has not only been a significant presence but also a guiding beacon, shaping his creativity since childhood and leading to the creation of universally captivating works.
“My passion for art has been deeply rooted, nurtured by my artistic parents – my mother is proficient in Aari Work while my father is skilled in crafting pashmina tools. When creativity is a familial legacy, it seamlessly becomes an integral part of one’s identity”, Sahil said.
Expressing his thoughts, Sahil acknowledges that the concept of sand art is not widely recognized in the valley. However, undeterred, he pursued his artistic vision, personally acquiring the raw materials for sand art. This form of art involves molding sand into exquisite forms, relying on a glass surface reflecting from below to unveil its mesmerizing beauty.
Embarking on his sand art journey in 2017, Sahil has now become a prominent figure in Kashmir’s art community. Reflecting on his beginnings, he recalls watching an online video of a Persian sand artist in 2010, igniting his fascination with this unique form of expression. “I opted to create sand art videos, crafting a tool with four sides enclosed by plywood and glass. In the realm of sand art, narratives and biographies come to life, adding a dynamic touch to the process”, he said.
Sahil stands out with his steadfast dedication to highlighting Kashmir and its vibrant culture. Stressing the importance of providing a platform for local artists. He said, “My goal is to showcase Kashmir and its culture globally.”
Working on projects in various international settings, particularly in the Gulf, he has actively participated in smart city initiatives and spearheaded the beautification of Srinagar city. Through collaborations with both private and governmental entities, his artistic creations, including portraits of Lt. Governor of J&K UT, Manoj Sinha, adorn parliamentary spaces. Furthermore, he has recently been into mural art, marking a first for Kashmir.
Beyond his personal projects, Sahil has made it his mission to impart the craft of sand sculpture to the next generation. His classes for young enthusiasts aim to nurture talent and preserve the diverse creative forms prevalent in Kashmir. “We’ve recently partnered with the Elite Institute of Art, gaining a platform through which they’ve determined that we’ll be instructing children”, he said.
Sahil’s extensive portfolio includes numerous local and national projects, showcasing his deep love for his homeland. Guiding a team of young artists, he shares his expertise and encourages them to pursue their artistic passions.
Sahil has urged the administration to consider facilitating a dedicated platform for the young talents in Srinagar. The city has garnered recognition as a creative hub, largely owing to the exceptional skills of its artisans.
“It is our collective dream to perpetually nurture and enhance Srinagar’s status as a flourishing creative city. We hope that in the future, proactive measures will be taken to cultivate and sustain an environment that fosters creativity and innovation among the youth, thereby solidifying Srinagar’s position as a vibrant center for artistic expression”, Sahil said.
Adding, “In my current role as a UX web designer, I’ve honed my skills in crafting seamless digital experiences. However, my true passion lies in the realm of art, and I aspire to transition into this field to unleash my creative potential. Despite my eagerness to contribute to the cultural landscape of Kashmir, I faced challenges in finding a suitable platform. This dilemma prompted me to explore new avenues, not only to fulfill my artistic aspirations but also to secure financial stability in this transformative career shift.”
For Sahil, sand art serves as a therapeutic outlet, complemented by daily practices in painting and various art forms. Expressing gratitude for the substantial support from his community and social media, he acknowledges its pivotal role in showcasing his art to the world.
Sahil Manzoor’s sand artwork illustrates that even the tiniest grains of sand can weave the most meaningful tales. In a world yearning for connections and cultural exchanges, he disseminates the spirit of Kashmir globally through his “poetry in motion,” one sculpture at a time.
writer is intern with Rising Kashmir
