BANGANI ART FOUNDATION
PADAV : ART MENTORING PROGRAM
(A Transformative Journey for Emerging Artists)
11th to 15th June 2023 at KAAYA LEARNING CENTRE, DEHRADUN
The "PADAV: Art Mentoring Program 2023" commenced on June 11, 2023, at the Kaya Learning Center in Dehradun. This program is dedicated to mentoring 20 emerging artists from Uttarakhand, under the guidance of Jagmohan Bangani, the founder of the Bangani Art Foundation. Over a five-day period, the program aims to provide intensive guidance and training, facilitated by the Kaya Learning Center, which is renowned for its emphasis on experiential learning in a natural environment. The initiative prioritizes hands-on learning and interactive exchanges between the mentor and participants, offering insights into various aspects of contemporary art. The overarching goal is to enhance the participants' artistic practices and broaden their understanding of contemporary art within a global context. Applications for the fellowship were solicited through an online advertisement on April 21, 2023. The response was substantial, with 56 applications received.
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A distinguished five-member jury, comprising Associate Professor Pradeep Chauhan from Delhi College of Art, Sculptor Sunita Chauhan, Painter Satya Sai Mothadka, Artist Punam Sharma, and Contemporary Artist Jagmohan Bangani, conducted a thorough review of the applications. Following the evaluation, 20 young artists were selected for the "PADAV" program. The selected participants hail from diverse regions within Uttarakhand, including Almora, Pithoragarh, Pauri Garhwal, Rudrapur, Uttarkashi, Nainital, Champawat, and Tehri Garhwal. This diverse cohort represents a broad spectrum of artistic skills and backgrounds, and the program is designed to foster their growth and enhance their abilities through the mentorship provided.
DAY 1
SESSION 1:
STRETCHING CANVASES
Attaching a canvas to a stretcher is a fundamental skill for artists. The participants had the opportunity to observe this process firsthand, allowing them to gain practical experience. This session aimed to provide artists with greater control over the quality and dimensions of their work. Artist Jagmohan Bangani emphasized the importance of this technique, recalling his introduction to stretching canvases during his master's program at Winchester School of Arts. The hands-on practice provided in this session was intended to build confidence and competence in this essential aspect of art-making.
SESSION 2:
CREATE YOUR OWN CANVASES
DAY 2
SESSION 1:
MENTOR’S JOURNEY (PART 1)
In this intimate session, artist Jagmohan Bangani recounted his personal journey from growing up in a remote village in Uttarkashi to pursuing art education and professional development. His narrative highlighted the challenges he faced and the perseverance required to achieve his goals. The participants found his story relatable and inspiring, reflecting on their own experiences in light of his journey.
SESSION 2:
MENTOR’S JOURNEY (PART 2)
Artist Jagmohan Bangani presented a comprehensive slideshow depicting the evolution of his artistic practice over time. The presentation showcased his progression from early sketching and figurative work to more complex pieces. This session emphasized the importance of a research-oriented approach in art and encouraged participants to explore and innovate rather than merely replicate existing styles.
Following the demonstration, participants were given wooden stretchers and canvas rolls. They measured, cut, and stretched the canvas over the wooden frames, using staple guns and other tools. This session allowed the participants to apply their newly acquired skills in a practical setting.
SESSION 3:
INDIVIDUAL ART JOURNEY TO PADAV
The day concluded with a brief introduction session where each participant shared their artistic inspirations and backgrounds. This exercise facilitated an understanding of each artist's unique journey and motivations, setting the stage for further collaborative learning.
DAY 3
ONE-ON-ONE SESSIONS WITH A MENTOR
On the third day, participants engaged in personalized one-on-one sessions with mentors Jagmohan Bangani and Punam Sharma. Each artist presented their past works, ongoing projects, and future aspirations for in-depth review. The mentors offered tailored feedback to help artists refine their techniques, navigate creative challenges, and explore new directions in their practice. These sessions provided valuable insights and guidance, encouraging artists to enhance their unique voices and perspectives. The constructive discussions fostered a collaborative learning environment, allowing participants to grow both technically and conceptually in their artistic journeys.
EVENING GUEST SESSION
with "NIDHI PANTA" ON ART MARKETS
Nidhi Panta, an experienced Art Advisory, Art Sales expert, and Art Strategist, as well as the director of Solidus Arts, shared her insights into the art market. She discussed the key dynamics involving buyers, investors, collectors, galleries, and auctions. Her session covered essential topics such as current market trends, effective pricing strategies, and how to leverage agencies to boost the visibility and sales of artwork. This informative discussion provided valuable knowledge for artists and art professionals seeking to navigate and succeed in the evolving art world.
DAY 4
INDIVIDUAL TECHNICAL SESSIONS: MENTORING ON ART
The mentor’s role involved assessing each participant’s previous work, identifying their natural inclinations, and providing tailored guidance. This hands-on evaluation aimed to refine their artistic skills and address specific areas for improvement.
SESSION 2:
MENTOR'S ART JOURNEY (PART 3)
The second part of Mr. Bangani’s presentation focused on his transition from figurative to abstract art. This segment highlighted the challenges and breakthroughs he experienced while pursuing his master’s degree at Winchester School of Art. The session aimed to inspire participants to embrace new directions in their own artistic practices.
SESSION 3:
ART JOURNEY OF PUNAM SHARMA
Punam Sharma, director of the Bangani Art Foundation, delivered a presentation highlighting her experimental approach to art. She emphasized personal exploration as essential for artists, contrasting with structured artistic paths. Her journey, characterized by unorthodox techniques and intuitive experimentation, showcased the importance of embracing uncertainty and creativity. Sharma's narrative illustrated how spontaneous inspirations and serendipitous discoveries contribute to an artist's development. She encouraged all participants to view the creative process as an ongoing journey, where missteps lead to deeper understanding. Her presentation concluded with applause, underscoring her message that true artistry lies in continuous evolution and personal exploration.
VISUALIZING CREATIVE IMMERSION:THE ESSENCE OF THE PROGRAM
The photographs documenting participants in the Padav Art Mentoring Program provide a compelling visual record of artists deeply engaged in their creative practices. These images offer an insightful representation of the program's dynamic environment, where each participant demonstrates a focused commitment to their work, whether through painting, sketching, or sculpting. The candid nature of the photographs reveals not only the participants' dedication to their craft but also the intrinsic satisfaction and joy they derive from the creative process.
The program’s structure fosters artistic exploration, encouraging participants to experiment with new techniques and push the boundaries of their artistic expression. The photographs capture the palpable energy of this learning environment, highlighting moments of collaboration and the exchange of ideas as participants engage with diverse media. Smiles and expressions of concentration reflect the balance between rigor and enjoyment within the creative process.
Moreover, these visual records underscore the passion each artist brings to their work, further emphasizing the program's focus on mentorship and community-building. The collective engagement and mutual support seen in these photographs encapsulate the essence of the Padav Art Mentoring Program, reflecting its role in nurturing artistic growth and promoting a spirit of exploration.
DAY 5
CLOSING SESSION
ART EXHIBITION & INTERACTION WITH GUESTS
The final day culminated in an art exhibition at the Kaya Learning Center, where participants showcased their works. The exhibition setup and subsequent leisure activities, including a party, fostered a sense of community and celebration. The event provided an opportunity for participants to display their talents and strengthen connections within the artistic community, marking a fulfilling conclusion to the program.
THE PROGRAM IN NEWS
