Chizokho Vero
Kohima | May 19
A glance at the brief yet touching profile of eight recipients of “Young Talented Artists’ Award 2008-09” speaks volume of their dedication and enormous contributions and achievements in the field of crafts, painting and singing. Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Vikuochulhou Tepa termed the award as a boost and big encouragement for them. “We want to use our talents to bring change in our society,” he asserted.
Son of Krusielhou Tepa and hailing from Mima village under Kohima district, Vikuochulhou Tepa is a creative young artist having won several prizes in painting competition both at the state and national levels. Born on 19 February 1984, he was also awarded with a commendation certificate on the occasion of 50th anniversary of Independence. Tepa (M.Sc) represented Nagaland at the Imagine Chicago Global Conference in 2002 and his painting ‘Ladder of Peace’ was chosen as the conference logo.
Another recipient Keneilhoulie Sorhie from Kohima village is a self-taught painter, with inspirations from folklore and the traditional arts. Son of M. Sorhie and born on 3 July 1983, his love for art developed from childhood. He believes that artists are born and not made. Keneilhoulie’s (B. Com) outstanding works have been recognized and awarded by various platforms. Son of Imtinungsang Ozukum and hailing from Mongsenyimti under Mokokchung district, T. Wapang Okukum, who received the award in the field of painting, is a self-taught painter who has participated in various art competitions and exhibitions both at the state and national levels. Born on 30 July 1986, Ozukum (BA hons) has a number of awards and appreciation certificates to his credit for outstanding works.
Freelancing craftsman Zulhupra, son of Neprazu belonging to Suthozu Nasa under Phek district is a self taught craftsman who has specialized in wood-carving and bamboo crafts. Born on 6 March 1980, he has participated and exhibited his works in various programmes.
Folk singer Nukhozolu Khamo, daughter of Choritso Khamo from Thipuzu village under Phek district, who was honoured for her contribution and achievement in the field of folk tune and song, has developed keen interest in folk songs from childhood. Born on 7 February 1988, she teamed up with Vepfutalu to learn and sing folk songs.
Another recipient of the award Vepfutalu, daughter of Thushihi Kezo belonging to Thipuzu village under Phek district is a duet folk singer with Nukhozolu who has been performing for various occasions since 2005. Born on 10 August 1987, Vepfutalu along with Nukhozolu, produced an album titled “Ligu” in 2007.
Anjo Chang, son of C. Among Chang and hailing from Sangsangyu under Tuensang district, is a self taught musician who took up music as a profession and started a music training ministry for the youth of his district. Born on 10 July 1979, Anjo (BA), a music teacher has composed several songs and anthems for various occasions.
Son of Lhoutha Mepfhuo from Rusoma village under Kohima district, Siedzevituo Mepfhuo is a self taught painter. Born on 18 January 1988, besides his collection, Siedzevituo (PU) works are collected in his schools and friends’ houses. It may be mentioned that the Young Talented Artists’ Award 2008-09 was given by North East Zone Culture Centre (NEZCC) under the scheme of recognition to young talented artists in the north east region.
