Tiger conservation project promoted by Rashtrapati Bhawan

NEW DELHI - A public art project that aims to raise funds for the conservation of tigers in India, Artiger, began in Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.

Christy L. Fernandez, a secretary to President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, said the exhibition sports 56 life-sized fiberglass tiger sculptures created by various well-known artists.

It is an attempt to promote the cause of tiger conservation, and also to create awareness about the falling numbers of the national animal.

“We in Rashtrapati Bhawan personally felt that the Rashtrapati Bhawan should have its own share in promoting the cause of tiger conservation. That is the reason why we have welcomed them and this exhibition would be open for next one week,” said Fernandez.

Aprajita Jain, Nandita Baig and Swapan Seth, the brains behind the project, said they drew inspiration from London’s Elephant Parade that took place earlier this year and raised four million pounds by placing elephant sculptures all around the city.

Organisers further stated that the money from this special exhibition of tiger sculptures would go to the Ranthambore Foundation.

“We have given this money to Ranthambore Foundation to use it in different manners. It would be decided on how we would allocate the funds, after which we are hoping to do the next project. We are thinking of certain ideas and as soon as we know what it is, we definitely will announce it,” said Jain.

From December 27, the tiger sculptures would be displayed at over 50 locations across Delhi.

The exhibition would continue to go on for next six weeks. (ANI)