JAIPUR: As new vistas open in the creative world, the number of institutes offering degree courses in fine arts too have increased. No wonder then

that Satakashi Saraswat, who recently completed Class XII (science) is keen to take admission in the undergraduate programme in the department of fine arts, Rajasthan University. Talking about her shift from science to fine arts, she said, “My inclination towards animation has forced me to leave my stream and pursue this one.”

Satakashi is not the only one who plans to pursue a course in fine arts. There are many like her from other streams who are finding fine arts more promising than their usual streams in school. Neha Sharma, a graduate in fine arts from Kurukshetra University is exploring more opportunities in the Pink City and her goal is clear. She said, “I would like to pursue my masters in visual arts from RU. This degree will enable me to get a teaching job in still photography.” After drama and theatre, this is the only specialized stream that attracts students to display their artistic skills.

The private institutes have also taken a keen interest in this subject by highlighting job placements and faculty in their respective prospectus and advertisements. This year more than four private institutes have introduced undergraduate programmes in still photography, painting, imaging and sculpture.

Kamla Garg, dean of department of fine arts, RU, explained the reason behind the sudden spurt in the number of students. “Fine arts has gained unprecedented popularity in the last couple of years due to increase in job opportunities in sectors like animation and designing,” she said.

However, this year the number of students in branches like painting and sculpture is likely to fall as it has been affected by global meltdown. Rakesh Sahu, a fine arts expert said, “Paintings are not being sold at very good prizes as the market is in doldrums.”

Head of the Students Advisory Bureau, RU, Deepak Saxena’s advise to the students seeking admission in fine arts is that they should have some inclination towards any form of art. He said, “Students should not be carried away by the glamour and fame that comes at a later stage. Instead, they should seek proper guidance before they enrol for the course.”