MANDREM: In the village of Deoulwada, Mandrem, resides Prakash Pednekar, a sculptor whose art transcends borders. His intricate Tulsi Vrinadavans and ceramic sculptures have not only captured the hearts of locals but have also found takers in England and Africa.
Pednekar’s journey into international acclaim began when artists from Africa collaborated with him on brass sculptures. Their shared passion and craftsmanship formed a bond that extended beyond borders. Word of mouth became a powerful conduit, introducing Pednekar’s art to enthusiasts in distant lands.
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For Pednekar, the essence of being an artist lies in an open mind and heart. “An artist has to always keep his mind and heart open. Mind to create art and heart to create bonds,” he affirms. This open-minded approach paved the way for collaboration and mutual appreciation, leading to the popularity of his sculptures abroad.
His family, including his wife, son, and brother-in-law, also excellent artists, are integral to his journey. Together, they contribute to the creation of not just sculptures but a legacy of artistry that resonates with diverse audiences.
Beyond Tulsi Vrinadavans, Pednekar’s skill extends to crafting sculptures of Happy Buddha, Sai Baba, and Swami Vivekananda. His reputation is especially strong in the regions along the Goa-Maharashtra border.
Acknowledging the challenges of an artist’s life, Pednekar emphasises the importance of dedication, consistency, and a commitment to perfecting the craft. “Being a full-time artist demands constant dedication, consistency, and commitment to perfecting your craft all the time,” he shares.
Is it worth it? According to Pednekar, absolutely. “Art is meditation, but when we make a living off selling our art, we have to keep in mind that we’re also businessmen. That’s where we have to strike a balance,” he reflects. Despite the hurdles, Pednekar sees being an artist as a privilege that brings wealth, popularity, and profound satisfaction.
As he concludes with a smile, “If you’re ready to give your best every day in and out, being an artist becomes more of a privilege. It’ll get you wealth, popularity, and satisfaction. It comes at a price, but the key is to keep your head down and to just surrender yourself to the art.” Prakash Pednekar’s story is not just one of sculpting art but also of sculpting connections that bridge cultures and continents.
