JOIN USKala for Vidya, an initiative by the Rotary Club of Bangalore to promote education for the underprivileged, was held at the Art Corridor of The Taj West End recently.
The event included an exhibition and sale of art by artists like Doddamani M G, J M S Mani, Yusuf Arakkal, Sujata Sah, Venu V G, Subramanian G, and others.
Gurudas Shenoy, an artist whose works were a part of the show, opines, “Education is one of the greatest and important things in anyone’s life. And I’m glad, as anyone here, to be a part of such a noble effort.”
Uzma Irfan from Prestige Group, who was the chief guest for the event, says, “This is a brilliant opportunity for artists and others to do something for the underprivileged kids. I’ve always been a promoter of art and culture being an art gallery owner myself. Budding art has to see a platform. Events like these provide for the artists and the cause.” Ask her about her favourite work, and she excitedly says, “Sujatha’s work has a certain metamorphosis to it. It seems to bring the positive side of everything. Most of us see mostly the negative things of life and those works seem to bring out the happiness that one can find within themselves.”
Maura Chari, a member of the gathering at the event, adds, “It’s nice to see so many different artists’ works under one roof. The show has very interesting pieces with an interesting choice for anyone to grab. I was particularly impressed with one work and realised that it was by Doddamani, an artist whose works I already own. The shadows, colours and the way the image seems to be moving along with one’s body movement make the work very alive.”
Complimenting the work, she says, “It seems to be a perfect piece of art for a spiritual room.”
“This concept, which is seeing its fourth edition this year, was an initiative to sell art and provide a platform for artists, while making money for a beautiful initiative. This is a vibrant mix of artists — from celebrated renowned ones to fresh and budding artists,” says Sridhar Chari, director of vocational training for the Rotary Club of Bangalore, Jatin Das, one of the most prominent artists at the event, describes how art has become all about making money.
“Money is not a driving force for a true artist. I’ve heard about artists who say that they are into art because of the money and that saddens me. People are too materialistic now and the humanitarian concept seems to have just gone,” he says.
Proceeds from Kala for Vidya will go towards the education of underprivileged children at Rotary Bangalore Vidyalaya, Nagadevanahalli.