French mural artistleads ‘Paint the wall’

Alliance Française Lucknow organised a programme titled ‘Paint the wall' at Le Press on Saturday. The programme featured French mural artist Olivier Kesadi. In a notable coincidence, Kesadi studied at La Martiniere school in Lyon, the hometown of Claude Martin, who founded La Martiniere Boys' and Girls' schools in Lucknow and is buried in the city. Known for travelling widely and exhibiting murals across the world, Kesadi explored Lucknow's architecture, culture and cuisine, sampling kebabs, mutton and paan. His newly unveiled wall paintings present an eclectic blend of Lucknow's architectural and cultural motifs, including the Rumi Darwaza, Le Press, a tonga and a fruit-laden cart. The inauguration was attended by Alliance Française president Prof Nishi Pandey, director Nicolas Macy, board members Prof Meeta Ghosh and Arvind Mishra, along with faculty and students. Le Press was represented by owner Nimmi Dubey. Mansi Didwania of Kala Strota Art Gallery and Deborah from Kala Kendra were also present.