Over the years, the art scene in Goa has undergone a transformative journey, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of this coastal paradise. Traditionally known for its vibrant and eclectic art forms, Goa has experienced a shift in artistic expression, with contemporary influences taking centre stage. However, there has been a notable resurgence in recent times as the state embraces its rich artistic heritage, exemplified by a return to traditional Goan art trends.
In the present era, there is a noticeable shift towards rediscovering and celebrating the authentic artistry that defines Goa. Kavi art, a traditional Goan art form that involves intricate wood carving and painting, has gained renewed attention.
In the vibrant artistic community of Goa, artists are also actively channelling their creativity to raise awareness about pressing issues like water scarcity and environmental conservation by using their talents as a tool for advocacy. These artworks not only document the challenges posed by water scarcity and environmental degradation but also inspire a sense of responsibility and urgency. Local artists have also passionately embraced the canvas to revive ancient Portuguese tile paintings, skilfully merging tradition with contemporary expression. Through their evocative brushstrokes, these artists not only breathe new life into the intricate patterns and colours of the past but also strive to foster awareness, inviting viewers to delve into the cultural amalgamation that defines Goa’s artistic narrative.
Goan local artists recently shared their perspectives and profound insights on how they are contributing to society during an interaction.
Sagar Naik Mule a local Kavi artist expressed himself by saying, “Firstly I’d like to say that I am the son of this Goan soil, I belong to a small village and we celebrate nature. I feel every artist is a blessing by Mother Earth, and that’s why I worship nature and TRY to express it through my art. Goan community, culture, festivals, and stories are what I try to depict in my paintings. I had a dream since childhood to be an artist. You can see Goa in every art piece of mine because I see Goa in myself. Kaavi art traditionally belongs to Goa, but due to the Portuguese influence, Kavi art took a backseat. For -the past 100 years there has been no active Kaavi artist in Goa, In 2020 I started working on the Kaavi art form to bring back this Goan traditional art. I started posting my work on social media, where my work started getting recognized which eventually brought back the art form. I have also done art pieces based on traditional Goan stories for example ‘The Monkey Wedding’. I want to influence Goan youth not only towards art but towards the roots of Goa. Everything I do is only to make a name for Goa at the international level.”
Pradul Sanguekar a multimedia artist shared his thoughts by saying, “I Have started creating art to bring people together, in 10 days 10000 people came together for the dice painting I did of Prabhu Shree Ram, the motto behind this was to make art a social gathering. I have also made a painting of ‘Lairai Devi’ on a leaf and the map of Goa on a cashew nut. I aim to focus on the lesser-known aspects of Goan culture and traditions. I want to create art using something that is out of the box so that I can make a name for my state. I don’t want to stick with any one art form, but use all the small aspects of Goa to preserve and promote our culture through my art.”
Clarice Vaz a self-taught artist said that “I love experimenting. Being a history/heritage lover, I began transferring Goa’s dramatic ‘disappearing’ landforms of beaches, forests, mangroves, lazy winding rivers, springs, and landscapes dotted with churches, crosses, sluice gates, wayside crosses, boats, etc on canvas. By the year 2016, I developed my signature style of ‘syringe painting.’ My paintings ‘ Church Congregation, Goan Flavour, The Fisherman’s Boat, Canoe Man, and Church Reflection are just a few that tell many Goan stories. Art has always been a powerful medium in our culture to express our traditions, and identity, and my artistic representations through paintings, visual storybooks act as a collective memory of life that once was. I’ve had several solo exhibitions in Goa and am on the verge of another heritage project titled ‘Ancestral Weave’ which is happening at Sadhana Delle’Arte on the 9th 10th and 11th of February. Here it will be a festival of my Kunbi sarees ‘Woven’ on canvas using acrylic paste - a project that took me more than 7 years to complete! I am extremely excited to share the way of life of our indigenous Kunbi/Gaudda tribes of Goa.”
“Our Goan culture is something that I tend to reflect through my artwork, as we know we Goans are known for hospitality and warmth and so I tend to use the shades of warm hearts and the soothing sea. One of my pieces revolves around the Portuguese tile painting found in Goa wherein I’ve tried to focus on the intricate designs and patterns by borrowing the soothing shades of the sea.” Says Naina Narvekar a young Goan artist.
Rangoli artist Bhumesh Naik says, “My rangoli art draws inspiration primarily from the traditional and cultural heritage, reflecting the raw essence of the Goan community. It is especially dedicated to farmers, tribals, and saints. Emphasizing teamwork, I collaborate on numerous significant rangoli projects with the Kalarangam team. My collection of rangoli art serves as a platform for raising awareness on topics such as water scarcity and environmental conservation.”
Renowned artist Sonia Rodrigues shared, “The rich history of my land, Goa, Its rich culture of folklore and religious practices have influenced my art, The rich folk dances of Goa, The God, and Goddess of Goa, have been and still are an influence in my paintings. I have painted the folk dances of Goa, like Bhajan Dindi, Divlayam Naach, Ghodemodni, Zagor, etc. My art pieces are also influenced by Goan rice and millet Ragi which are titled ‘Pez’ and ‘Nachni’.
The vibrant art scene in Goa demonstrates a resilient commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region. The journey of Goa’s art scene has been transformative, with a shift towards rediscovering traditional art forms like Kavi art and Portuguese tile paintings. Local artists exemplify this dedication, using their creative talents to depict the essence of Goa’s landscapes, stories, and cultural traditions.
These artists not only showcase the beauty of Goa but also use their art as a powerful tool for advocacy, addressing crucial issues such as water scarcity and environmental conservation by inspiring a sense of responsibility and urgency among the viewers.