‘Different Strokes’: Chitra Sante 2020
The annual art fair, hosted by the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, was held on January 5. Read on to know more about the various exhibits.
Features
One of the many artworks on display at Chitrasante
By Roshini Muthukumar and Busi Prafula Grace
Bangalore: The Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath (CKP) hosted the 17th edition of its art festival, ‘Chitra Sante - Art for All’, on January 5. The annual, one-day event was organised along the Kumara Krupa Road, bringing together artists and art connoisseurs. The Sante provided a platform for these artists to showcase and sell their work.
Held on the first Sunday of the year, the theme of this edition of the festival was ‘Farmers.’ Since its inception, the Sante has exhibited traditional folk artwork, but this year it also featured modern media artwork such as graphic design, wire art, etc. The most interesting art-form, however, was the 'on-spot portraits,' which had children and adults alike, standing in awe around the artist.
“There are more than 1,300 artists present today. Out of these, 30 will be randomly selected to showcase their work at the India Art Fair which will be held all over India in April,” said a volunteer.
First-time participant, Manjula Prasad's stall, featured both her and her son's artwork. "It is a proud moment for us to be able to exhibit our work among other talented artists." On display were her paintings and greeting cards, hand-made by her son. While CKP's indoor section accommodated artists with disabilities, the outdoor section did not have any such provision. "My son could not be at the stall today as he is spastic, and wheelchair facility was not made available."
According to news reports, the CKP presented awards to four individuals from Karnataka and one national-level award to an artist from Chennai. Apart from being an art fair, the Sante also serves as a get-together for art lovers. "This is the second fest that I have attended. My family is always on the lookout for new art that we can hang in our house," said a visitor.
Visitors look at the artwork exhibited at the Sante
"I have been participating here for eight years. I do not come here to sell my artwork and make money, but I do it for my own satisfaction. I also get to meet other like- minded people," said Mr Aravind, a retired theatre director.
Every year, lakhs of Bangaloreans turn up for the Sante in support of artisans, proving true the Chitrakala Parishath’s motto of bringing art to the public.
