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What is it about ART that
is so eye catching that even the common person wishes to
rise above his mundane existence and appreciate it. A number
of glamorous events in metros and satellite cities in India
are attracting the rich and the famous along with common
people on a single platform to promote various forms of art.
From the different kinds of Art Events held easily, one can
figure the popularity of art. Today an artist can go solo or
participate with other artists to display works of art and
be noticed as well. The spotlight gravitates towards those
Art Events that have become a cult for art lovers. As number
of art connoisseurs increase different types of art events
have different meanings.
Art Exhibitions
These are the oldest form of display of artwork by artists.
Of course, today art galleries have become state-of-the-art
and are well-lit. A good art gallery will take care of all
the events related to the artist. From a solo exhibition to
theme based works, photographs, abstracts, out of town
artists, students work are handled. If a solo artist is
featured (especially a celebrated painter) then the event is
well publicized in various media (electronic & print) to
attract attention. The artist normally is available in the
gallery at specific hours to talk to people also. Normally
the exhibition is an organized event, which calls for
inauguration by a social person or an art aficionado.
Generally, the first day is reserved for special invitees
and press. Then the exhibition (3 days or 10 days) is open
during the working day for the public. Sometimes two or more
artists have same themes but with different interpretations.
Having their works displayed side-by-side helps people to
evaluate their works in a single place. Normally an art
dealer who knows the two artists and is keen on promoting
their works puts such events together.
Special Art Events
Some art events become almost iconic and most artists and
audiences wait for them. Usually, these are annual affairs
and display work of artists from many different parts. For
example the Annual Harmony Exhibition in Mumbai which is in
its tenth year of existence is rapidly becoming a coveted
event for artists to be featured in. Every year it has a
special artist in focus (could be a budding artist or a
veteran). The event also focuses on plays with art themes,
which is popular with the public. Interviews and seminars
are highlights of the ten-day event. Another event is the
Kala Ghoda Festival again in Mumbai, which has interesting
works of arts brought straight out on the streets! All types
of mixed media are displayed and creativity is pure
unlimited at such events. In addition, when it is open to
public, they do appreciate and encourage the artist
community to explore their talents.
In Pune and various other smaller towns in Maharastra,
Karnataka and West Bengal Festivals like Ganesh Utsav and
Durga Puja inspire artists, sculptors, artisans, and of
course painters to have a wide variety of themes. In such
events, rural art and amateur artists find interested
patrons. This is the time to worship the talent and with so
many cultural events holding such events for artists,
competitions bring out the best in them!
Art Education Events
One of the best ways to encourage talent is to allow
children to paint. Some schools of arts organize workshops
for students and adults during holidays, weekends and
special occasions to promote art. These kinds of art events
are also important to nurture young talent. Some artists
themselves conduct workshops to assist new artists.
Walking tours of various art galleries and museums of
artworks for visiting artists and students helps in the
study of art itself. Popular abroad these educational trips
help students of art who wish to make careers in art later.
Sometimes nature trails and art camps are regularly held for
young adults.
Art Events With A Cause
Sometimes during the year, special art events are organized
for charity purposes with some gala dinners. These events
are usually restricted to corporate houses, art dealers and
important patrons of art. These events are mostly associated
with some auction houses as well. Bidding takes place to
fetch good prices, which are then donated, to some worthy
causes. Since the entry to these events is restricted, only
those invitees are called who have genuine interest in
buying art or are members of a club. Foreign artists too
have such events where billions are exchanged in form of art
investment also. Once in a while, a single artist gets
together a collection of his old and new work for exclusive
patrons for some cause.
Art Events are becoming important social points of contacts
than mere glamorous parties. There is an art event for the
intellectual audience, workshops or the learners,
exhibitions for all occasions and much more. Pick up any art
event that you like and it is sure to stimulate you and
challenge the creative mind. - By N A Nagpal
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