PADAV: ART MENTORING PROGRAM

“Padav (-a camp) is a stopover in one’s journey. It is usually a natural place to rest, with water, food, and shade, with people around. It is the space, where there are relaxed conversations without prejudice & expectations, co-travellers sharing insights, exchanging tips, and even getting guided by someone to the way forward, particularly by those who have walked on the same path before.”

In a creative context, PADAV: ART MENTORING PROGRAM takes on a new meaning as a metaphorical space where artists and creative individuals gather along their respective journeys. As an artist, I observe that there are fellow creative souls who are traveling a similar path, and I find myself stopping and looking back to offer my assistance and guidance to those who are still navigating their own artistic journeys.

PADAV: ART MENTORING PROGRAM, in this sense, represents a supportive community where artists come together to rest, reflect, and exchange ideas. It is a place where I engage in relaxed conversations, free from prejudice and expectations, fostering an environment of mutual understanding and acceptance. Within PADAV: ART MENTORING PROGRAM, co-travelers share their insights, experiences, and creative tips, enhancing the collective knowledge and growth of the artistic community. As an artist who has walked the path before, I take on the role of a guide, providing valuable mentorship and direction to those who seek it. I offer guidance to my fellow artists, helping them find their way forward and navigate the challenges they encounter. My experiences and wisdom serve as a beacon, illuminating the path for others as they embark on their artistic endeavors.

In essence, PADAV: ART MENTORING PROGRAM, in this creative context, symbolizes a space where artists come together to support and uplift each other. It is a place of relaxed conversations, where artistic insights are shared, creative tips are exchanged, and guidance is offered by those who have traveled a similar path before. It represents a nurturing community that encourages collaboration, growth, and the collective evolution of artistic expression.

ABOUT THE FOUNDING MEMBERS OF PADAV: ART MENTORING PROGRAM

JAGMOHAN BANGANI: Jagmohan Bangani is a renowned full-time visual artist hailing from Uttarakhand, India. Growing up in the remote Bangaan region of Uttarakhand, he has ventured far and currently resides and works in Delhi. Bangani holds a Master's degree in Painting from Winchester School of Art in Winchester, UK. Throughout his artistic career, Bangani has garnered recognition and support through prestigious fellowships and scholarships. He was awarded the Ford Foundation Fellowship in New York, the Junior Fellowship from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and a Research Scholarship from Lalit Kala Akademi in New Delhi.

Bangani has held six solo exhibitions, showcasing his distinctive artistic style and themes. These exhibitions include "Visual Scriptures" in 2017, "Scriptural Enchantment" in 2011, "Texts, Words & Scripts" in 2010, "Tapestry of Words" in 2008, "Shabd- Nishabd" in 2007, and "Early Memories" in 2004. His artworks have been featured in numerous major group art exhibitions in India and internationally. He has also participated in various art fairs, art camps, and residencies both in India and abroad.

The artistic creations of Jagmohan Bangani have found their way into esteemed collections, including those of the Secretariat Uttarakhand State in Dehradun, Lalit Kala Academy, the Ford Foundation, Sahitya Kala Parishad, and the All India Fine Arts and Crafts Society (AIFACS). Furthermore, his works are housed in several private collections in India and abroad, highlighting the widespread admiration and appreciation for his artistic talent. Jagmohan Bangani's artistic journey, coupled with his notable achievements and extensive body of work, solidifies his position as a respected visual artist in both the national and international art scenes.

SANTOSH PASSI: Santosh Passi is a dedicated development practitioner who recognized the importance of bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. In 2011, he conceptualized Kaaya, a program aimed at actively creating a space for urban-rural connectivity. Passi holds a degree from the Indian Institute of Forest Management and is a Fellow in International Development Policy from Duke University in the USA. His academic pursuits were supported by prestigious grants, including the Ford Foundation International Fellowship (IFP) and a scholarship from the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.

Initially, Passi worked as a program and policy evaluation consultant in the community development sector. However, in 2011, he decided to channel his efforts into creating Kaaya as a social experiment. Since then, he has dedicated his full time to the evolution of Kaaya, which has developed into a social enterprise serving as a platform for innovative programming. Kaaya's primary objective is to bring individuals closer to sustainable living practices. It serves as a catalyst for fostering connections between urban and rural communities, promoting knowledge exchange, and creating avenues for implementing sustainable practices in daily life. Through Kaaya, Santosh Passi aims to inspire and empower individuals to embrace a sustainable lifestyle, considering environmental, social, and economic aspects.

Passi's commitment to creating a more sustainable future and his active involvement in Kaaya's development demonstrate his passion for fostering positive change. By establishing this social enterprise, he has provided a platform for innovative programming and engagement, facilitating a deeper understanding of sustainable living practices and fostering connections between diverse communities.

JYOTI SHRI

In the quietude of Dwarahat, nestled in the embrace of the Almora district of Uttarakhand, there exists a narrative woven with pigments and strokes, a tale that bears witness to the essence of a soul named Jyoti Shri. From the tender days of youth, where innocence danced hand in hand with curiosity, a symphony of colors and forms began to shape her journey.

Jyoti Shri, a name that reverberates with the echo of creativity, embarked on a voyage of self-discovery through the realms of art. The canvas became her canvas of existence, a realm where her thoughts took flight and emotions found their haven. From the earliest years, the seeds of artistic ardor were nurtured by the guiding hands of her Art teacher, Mrs. Anita Kothari, and the wise heart of her grandfather, Mr. Hari Ram Arya. It was their unwavering belief and encouragement that breathed life into her aspirations, leading her to the hallowed halls of SSJ University Almora. Each stroke of Jyoti Shri's brush carries the whispers of her experiences, her encounters with the world both tangible and ethereal. The canvas transforms into a palimpsest of emotions, an intricate tapestry of hues that mirror the landscapes of her thoughts. The very essence of her art transcends mere visual representation; it delves into the profound connection between artist and medium, invoking a dialogue between the soul and the stroke. In her artistic odyssey, colors ascend beyond mere pigments; they metamorphose into messengers of solace, resonating with the beholder's heartbeats. The subjects she selects are a reflection of the myriad facets that life offers – each a chapter in the grand epic of existence. With a deft hand and a discerning eye, she orchestrates an ensemble of visual tales that tug at the strings of human empathy.

Jyoti Shri's palette embraces diversity, embracing mediums as diverse as watercolor, charcoal, pencil color, oil, acrylic, and soft pastel. This versatility is a testament to her ceaseless quest for new dimensions of expression. Landscapes unfold under her skilled hand, carrying the essence of nature's untouched beauty. Portraits unveil the nuances of human emotions, capturing fleeting moments of vulnerability and strength. In the dance of composition, she weaves symphonies where disparate elements find harmony. Art, for Jyoti Shri, transcends the boundaries of time and space. It is a vessel that carries her essence across epochs and continents, a bridge that connects her to kindred spirits across the annals of history. With each brushstroke, she blurs the lines between creator and creation, inviting the viewer to partake in her voyage of introspection and wonder.

As the sun sets behind the verdant hills of Dwarahat, as the winds whisper secrets through ancient trees, Jyoti Shri continues to pour her heart onto the canvas. Her art becomes a mirror for the world, reflecting not just the surface, but the depths that lie within. And in doing so, she beckons us to embark on our own odyssey of exploration, to delve into the palette of our own existence, and to find the colors that truly define our souls.

PAHAD KE RANG: CLOSURE OF EXHIBITION AND PROGRAM

Pahad Ke Rang is delighted and grateful for the overwhelming appreciation received during the two-day Art Exhibition held at Lokayata Art Gallery. The exhibition provided a platform for the artists from Uttarakhand to showcase their talent and creativity to a wider audience, and the positive response is a testament to their hard work and dedication. The 18-month long programe, which included learning workshops and art residencies, has been a transformative journey for both the artists and the organizers. It has provided a nurturing environment for the artists to learn, grow, and explore their artistic potential. The workshops and residencies have not only honed their skills but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among the artists.

As this programe comes to an end, it marks the culmination of a significant chapter in the artistic journeys of these talented individuals. The experiences gained, knowledge acquired, and relationships formed during this period will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their artistic endeavors. Pahad Ke Rang and all the stakeholders involved in the programe are immensely proud of the accomplishments of the artists from Uttarakhand. The exhibition and the entire programe have not only provided them with a platform but also opened doors for future opportunities and recognition.

It is a moment of both reflection and celebration as we acknowledge the growth and achievements of these artists. Their artistic expressions have not only enriched the cultural landscape of Uttarakhand but also contributed to the wider art community. We express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported, appreciated, and participated in the programe. Your encouragement and engagement have played a vital role in the success of Pahad Ke Rang and the artists involved. While this particular chapter may be concluding, we hope that the artistic journey of these talented individuals continues to evolve, and their art continues to inspire and touch the hearts of many.

A glimpse of the "PAHAD KE RANG" art exhibition.

 PAHAD KE RANG : ART EXHIBITION

HIMATAR: WRITE-UP

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PAHAD KE RANG: An exhibition of artworks by budding artists from Uttarakhand

 Dear friends,

I extend a warm invitation to all of you to attend the exhibition showcasing the works of budding artists from Uttarakhand. This event is a celebration of creativity and talent nurtured through various art workshops conducted over the course of a year. The exhibition will feature approximately 100 artworks that reflect the unique perspectives and artistic journeys of these talented individuals. It is an opportunity to witness their growth and artistic expression firsthand. 

Your presence and support would mean a lot to these aspiring artists. Your participation will not only encourage them but also contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Uttarakhand. This exhibition is a platform for these artists to share their stories, ideas, and emotions through their art. I believe that art has the power to inspire, connect, and transform, and this exhibition is a testament to that. So, please join us in celebrating the vibrant art scene of Uttarakhand and appreciating the incredible talent of these emerging artists.

We look forward to your presence at the exhibition and sharing this joyous and culturally enriching experience together.