Bangalore International Art Festival kicks off

Photo: Times of India

Walk on the path of art on MG promenade
The Bangalore International Art Festival 2004 saw a splendid kick-off.
Deccan Herald

The Bangalore International Art Festival 2004 was kicked off here on Sunday amidst much excitement and jubilation. The 10-day festival, divided into six different cultural events, will be held at various art galleries, theatre houses and open spaces in the City. Speaking on the occasion, Art Mantram President Jija Harisingh said, the festival is the outcome of a long-cherished dream. She said it is an effort to sensitise the society to art, through art works and performances by children and some other well-known artistes from across the country.

“The festival is both for the rich and the poor. Though the festivities are held in various galleries, across the City that are quite elitist, the common man must shed his fear and walk into these galleries and feel one with art,” said Jija Harisingh.

Speaking after inaugurating the festival, Minister for Industries P G R Sindhia, hoped that this festival would put Bangalore as a pioneer of art on the international map. He said he was glad that the festival was held to coincide with the Navarathri festival — a festival of joy and happiness — being celebrated in the City.

Several differently abled children, who took part in the painting competition, were given away awards on the occasion.

Various cultural activities including dance and music were performed as part of the inauguration. The theme song, specially composed for the inauguration, was rendered by Dr L Subramaniam and Kavitha Krishnamurthy. Dances and music concerts from rural Karnataka were also held

The ‘Art Walkway’ on M G Road displays the best in art and craft.

The stalls shone bright with art work in clay, terracotta and glass. Wall hangers, mehendi art, decorative furniture, showpiece, junk jewellery in clay and terracotta adorn these stalls. A model of Hampi’s stone chariot is one of the major attractions. The stalls provide space for art works priced between Rs 500 and Rs 10 lakh. One will find artists painting on pathways, walls and on canvas.

Earlier, City Mayor inaugurated the ‘Art Walkway’, on the promenade on MG Road and a pottery exhibition at Chitrakala Parishat.