Mr. DS Kapoor
Prof. D. S. Kapoor, a third-generation torchbearer of a distinguished artistic lineage, has served as a vital link between the historic Mayo School of Art (now the National College of Arts, Lahore) and the Government College of Art, Chandigarh. As a student, faculty member, and later Principal, he dedicated his life to advancing visual culture and nurturing young artists.
A visionary art educationist, digital artist, columnist, and author, Prof. Kapoor introduced Computer Graphics into the curriculum, blending tradition with modernity. His leadership during the Diamond Jubilee (2011–12) led to landmark initiatives, including the Bhagat Dhan Raj Sculpture Park and national exhibitions like Tribal Art of India and Life & Earth, alongside the thought-provoking campaign Nuclear Energy-Why?
Even after retirement, Prof. D. S. Kapoor continued his artistic journey with unwavering passion. From 2012 to 2016, he served as Dean of the State University of Performing and Visual Arts, Rohtak, where he infused fresh energy into the institution by organizing National sculpture camps and launching impactful National campaigns like “Suno Chhoti Si Gudia Ki Lambi Kahani”, inspired by the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao movement.
In 2016, he became the Founder Director of the National Institute of Design, Kurukshetra-India’s second NID campus. Until 2021, he laid the groundwork for this prestigious institution, nurturing a new generation of design thinkers and innovators.
Prof. D. S. Kapoor is the author of the acclaimed book “History & Heritage of Government College of Art, Chandigarh- Mayo School’s Post-Colonial Cousin in India,” which received the India Book of Records Award for its scholarly excellence.
A cultural visionary, he enriched Chandigarh’s public spaces through initiatives like the Chandigarh Carnival, the iconic 60-foot Eiffel Tower replica in Leisure Valley, and monumental murals for the Delhi Metro.For his lifelong contributions to art and education, Prof. Kapoor has received multiple State Awards from the Governors of Punjab and Haryana, along with commendations from various state governments and the Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi. Recently, he was Honoured with Prestigious Amrita -Sher- Gil Samman conferred to me by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi Akademi, Chandigarh Administration on 2025. A passionate advocate for artists’ dignity, he launched the national campaign “Jai Kalakar,” echoing the spirit of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.
He also serves as Founder-President of Kala Maitri (Alumni Association) and holds honorary positions in organizations like Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, INTACH, SPIC MACAY, and the Indian Red Cross Society. Prof. Kapoor frequently serves on juries for major art competitions and advises several prestigious bodies, including UPSC, UGC, Indraprastha University, SUPVA Rohtak, and NID Kurukshetra.