When a walk in the park gets artsy

“What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” 
 — Albert Pike

ArtMantram, one of Bengaluru’s oldest and selfless NGOs of art is collaborating with artists to create an event at Cubbon Park on February 11, and inviting senior citizens from old age homes for a day out to be a part of this showing where artists set the tune while  painting in the lap of nature. The event last year drew crowds in huge numbers. Since its inception in 1999 ArtMantram has probably been the only organisation for art in the city that has relentlessly and selflessly given artists the much-needed push. The committee which has always been spearheaded by the energetic force Jija Hari Singh and Raji Narayan, has always been driven by passion and motivated by art. The event to be hosted this Sunday at Cubbon Park has multiple things in store for art lovers and it is aimed at raising funds towards elderly citizens of the city. There has been no dearth of art activities happening in the city, but this particular event is eclectic and different in its charitable initiatives. The event will be a confluence of multiple activities. The artists will paint live, while visitors interact and learn from them. Senior artist Shan Re will be in full flow with her interactive art therapy workshop, aptly supported by her artist daughter Romicon Revola. There is also a special kid’s corner, a children workshop by Meera Gyanchand and Shalini Singh, an interactive outreach programme aimed at generating art awareness among the younger generation who will be responsible in preserving the art heritage of the city. A dance performance is also on agenda, after which senior artists Vijay Sindhur and Milind Nayak will be honoured. Senior artists like Gurudas Shenoy, Bharati Sagar and Paresh Hazra will be sharing valuable tips with visitors. About the event, Jija Hari Singh says, “Our belief is that art is a part of everyday life. In pursuit of our triple aim of promoting art, artists and art awareness, we are bringing art and artists from the confines of studios and galleries to the Park. I have found children and youth enjoying the sun. Why not invite the older and elderly to get a taste of art in the park?” Initiatives with a heart indeed make a difference to the elderly, who are very neglected, and don’t get to experience art, be it galleries or otherwise. 

The event will be held at Cubbon Park, Band Stand on February 11, 10 am onwards.

— The writer is an art expert and curator.