Aizwal, Aug 28 (ANI): Laltanpuia, a promising painter who started the first fine arts school in Mizoram, is encouraging the youth to take to innovative ways to earn a living.

Laltanpuia, for whom painting was just a hobby, has now turned it into a mission to fight social problems like militancy, drugs and poverty in the northeast. is art not only pleases the eyes but also conveys an important message about culture, life and most of all peace.

With the objective of tapping the hidden talent among the youth, Laltanpuia started the first fine arts school in Mizoram after the completion of a Diploma in Fine Arts from Mumbai.

“As there is no art college here so I had to pursue my Diploma in Art outside of the state. After completion of my course, I returned and set up this school of fine arts so that people need not go out to learn about art. Art can attract the youth towards constructive activities. I think the educated youth can be self-employed by taking to painting and there is a good demand for paintings in metro cities and foreign markets,” said Laltanpuia.

Laltanpuia, who believes that art can play a role in developing aesthetic values among the people of Mizoram, encountered many hardships on his journey.

One of them was the absence of an art school or guidance centre in the state.

Keeping this in mind, he started the art centre, which is now molding lives of many budding artists.

“It’s a good profession. We can make good money and since it is my hobby, I can pursue my hobby as a profession,” said Lalchangchua.

Today, several educated Mizo youth have joined the centre and are learning fine art. Some even plan to further develop their skills after getting trained in painting and usage of colour.

“Art is a good scope for earning money through your works. You can also make a name for yourself through art. And government jobs are all very common here, so it’s a different way,” said Lisa Lalsanswani, a trainee.

Laltanpuia’s determination and hard work has set an example worth emulating. By Pinaki Das (ANI)