In the
ever-altering landscape of life and living, maintaining the sanctity of untouched locations has increasingly
posed a challenge. Keeping commercialisation at bay from the untouched pristine
villages of Bardez like Porvorim, Sangolda, Candolim and Calangute has been a
constant strive for locals, environmentalists and art connoisseurs. Alas! Part
of the essence has been lost to over exploitation of natural landscapes and
excessive beach tourism.
There are always options available in the spectrum of life to
face struggles and hardships. One is either a spectator giving views, or one
can participate and get involved, thus, becoming a part of the change vis-à-vis
speaking of change. In continued efforts of bridging the gap between tourists
seeking novel experiences and promoting local art, artisans, heritage and
nature trails, Make It Happen, an experiential Travel company has yet again
strived for another curated trail which is as personal as it is innovative in
its approach.
From the creativity of vintage Goan artists to modern
contemporary art, this trail encompasses all. It is full of surprises, giving a
fresh take on the tranquil side of Calangute, Candolim and Porvorim, places
often masked by chaos and commercialisation. The Goan Canvas Trail is an initiative
to offload the beaches in these areas and shift the focus to more sustainable
and responsible tourism practices.
While some of these galleries can be visited independently,
should you choose to experience this trail with Make It happen you will get to interact
with some of the artists and delve into their lives and experie nce the very
ethos that has inspired their art. The highlights are innovative strategies
adopted by the artist, the organic village lifestyle that nurtures creativity,
and the splendid houses and architecture of heritage as well as contemporary
homes.
There are many more interesting facets that have been woven
including culinary arts, local anecdotes, myths, mysteries and folktales that
present a different take on built heritage, but we’ll leave that for you to
explore on this curated trail.
Here are some of the
Contemporary Art Galleries in North Goa, some of which feature in Make It
Happen’s Goan Canvas Trail.
Art Chamber
At a time, when art
and artists were still searching a niche for them to be able to express and
showcase their art, “The Art Chamber or Galeria de Belas Artes”, came in like a
beacon of light. Established in 1997, over the last decade it has developed
into a landmark center for showcasing of local, national and International
artists.
Yolanda De Sousa
Kammermeier is an award-winning artist from Goa. Her choice of color on the
canvas are ceramic and water colours. Her better half is, Rudolph Kammermeier,
a professional classical musician. One can say, rhythm of music and the
delicate movement of paint brushes dance their own dance here.
Houses of Goa
This museum showcases
the generic and specific built and style of Goan homes, a unique identity of
our state. It was built with the intention of broadcasting the unique amalgamation
of the East influence meeting the west origins.
Shaped like a
triangle from outside, it holds a unique construction mystery once you enter.
Sprawled over three varied levels, with each level giving a unique insight into
a specific detail all meeting in a beautiful apex point on the top floor.
It’s the handiwork
creation of renowned Goan architect, Gerald da Cunha.
Mario’s Gallery:
Salvador Do Mundo and Calangute
This store gallery is
dedicated to Goa’s most celebrated artist, Mario Miranda. The entrance has its
life-sized statues and photo booth that make for great capture of fun moments.
You know you have been to Goa when there’s a Mario Miranda magnet or Artwork in
your home.
Just a stroll around
the gallery, browsing through Mr. Miranda’s works, is an introduction to Goa’s
unique history. All his observations and insights on Goan culture come to life
through a myriad of images. If a life was lived in the Goan streets in any
capacity, it has found a shape and body on the canvas of Mr. Miranda.
Monsoon Heritage
Studio
A heritage studio at
the far end of a tropical nature walk trail and the ever-distinctive style of
Mosaic work. Welcome, to the picturesque, Monsoon Heritage Studio.
The founder,
‘Chirinian’ has a dramatic and distinctive penchant for mosaic work. From
mirrored sculptures of Hindu deities to various abstract forms, all sculptures
are uniquely handcrafted using single pieces of locally sourced and natural raw
materials. There is a beautiful responsibility that is mutually shared between
man and nature, and it is here that it is best represented.
Museum of Goa
Conceived by Dr
Subodh Kerkar, Museum of Goa provides an opportunity for all to enjoy
contemporary arts.
This unique and
inclusive space for the Arts, brings together artists, curators, collectors,
art enthusiasts, educators, students and audiences from all walks of life. It
is an inclusive habitat for all things and people who want to discover and hone
their artistic and skilled side.
Cheshire Cat
Gallery, Assagao
Green lands, isolated
water bodies and a luxury jewelry store. The tangent where these three meets is
the famous, “Cheshire Cat Gallery” owned by Van Andel& Peace. Exquisite
pieces, exclusive designing and the unique style of English/Dutch influence for
jewelry leaves the buyers and travelers stunned in awe.
Make
It Happen is doing their bit to bring the world to the doorstep of arts and
artisans that are the pride of our Goa, bringing the world to the very root of
our culture and heritage, which are the delight of our state.
