Dolcy D’Cruz
Goan artist Sagar Naik Mule was recently invited to participate in a five-day residency under the Artists-in Residence Programme at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Sagar, who hails from Adpai in Ponda, is no stranger to New Delhi and has even met the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, in the past. This marks his fourth invitation from the Government of India. He was previously recognised as one of the ‘100 Heroes of India’ during Mann Ki Baat at 100, invited as the Prime Minister’s special guest at the Republic Day parade, attended the Prime Minister’s oath taking ceremony as a prestigious guest, and was also part of the Goan tableaux team two years ago for the Republic Day Parade. He may even be the first Goan artist to be invited to this residency programme. “I am excited to be here in New Delhi. I visited the Lairai Devi Temple in Shirgao and, after seeking her blessings, I brought Goa’s red soil from there to create art here. In a way, Goa’s soil will be immortalised at Rashtrapati Bhavan,” says Sagar. The residency will be held from April 15 to 20. As artists continue to arrive and settle into their rooms, Sagar has so far spotted only one artist from Chhattisgarh, whom he had met at the Bharat Kala Mahotsav a few years ago. He believes it will be an interesting confluence of many folk art traditions at the residency. At the programme, Sagar expects to receive a theme from the organisers, but he already has an idea in mind. “I have to complete three canvases, each measuring 2 feet by 3 feet. As I usually focus on folk art and local culture, I am planning to create one work based on the divinity of the Lairai Jatra. I will begin early, as the wall putty needs to dry before I can start the next layer,” he explains. Sagar was selected by the Ministry through the Department of Handicrafts, which has been monitoring his work over the years. His art has now reached international audiences, including the United States, through a curator. He is optimistic that with growing national recognition, kaavi art will gain global prominence. “There is a lot of interest in Indian art worldwide, and very soon its influence will be seen internationally,” he says. The residency will conclude with an exhibition, followed by a shared meal with the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, along with a photo session and an award and certificate distribution ceremony. “This is like a national award for Goan soil. These artworks will become part of the Government of India’s treasure. Whenever there are exhibitions or museum displays, these paintings will be showcased,” Sagar adds. On World Art Day, celebrated today, Sagar has a special message for the art community in Goa, regardless of age or skill level: “On World Art Day, all artists should share their work on social media to celebrate and showcase their talent. We must remind the world about World Art Day,” he concludes, adding yet another feather to his colourful hat.
