The Beacon - February 2024
Editorial Team : Harini Thiagarajan, Anishka Gogoi, Anvika Bheemarasetty, Guhan Thiagarajan
“An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision.” - James McNeill Whistler
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“An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision.” - James McNeill Whistler 〰️
Art by a Rajasthani Gold Leaf Workshop Participant
Recent Highlights
Seattle University Lecture
Seattle University hosted artist Ms. Deepti Agrawal for a lecture on Madhubani Painting, titled "Madhubani Painting - An Ancient Art that Tells Stories!" on February 5th, 2024.
Ms. Agrawal provided insights into the cultural heritage of Northeast India through this art form, discussing its evolution, history, and significance.
Accompanied by youth artists, Khushi Garg and Mahima Kolar, the presentation showcased the hidden stories behind iconic artworks, captivating the audience and fostering a deeper appreciation for Madhubani art.
The presentation was followed by hands-on art practice that students thoroughly enjoyed. Overall the session successfully promoted cultural diversity and artistic expression at Seattle University.
Upcoming Events
&
Opportunities
Bake Party
There is an exciting one-of-a-kind workshop coming up during the mid-winter break. Local home-based bakery, The Eggless Cake Box is collaborating for a baking event on Feb 21-22 from 11 AM to 12:30 PM at Deepti Designs Bothell studio. This workshop will provide participants with an opportunity to enhance their baking skills along with implementing a previously made artwork in edible format on their self-baked cakes.
Some basic molding and confectionary art techniques will also be covered in the workshop. It is planned to be an engaging and informative event.
For now, the slots are full. However, feel free to reach out to Ms. Agrawal if this workshop format is of interest as there are plans to host them in future soon.
A/NT Gallery
Deepti Designs is excited to extend an exclusive invitation to you for the opening reception of the A/NT Gallery, a prestigious art space nestled in the heart of the Seattle Center. This event promises to be an extraordinary celebration of culture and creativity.
Event Details:
Date: March 2nd
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: A/NT Gallery, Seattle Center
Artistic Marvels: Prepare to be captivated by approximately 40 stunning pieces of Madhubani artwork, each telling a unique story and reflecting the rich heritage of this traditional art form. The exhibition will be open to the public throughout the entire month of March, providing ample opportunity for our community to immerse themselves in the beauty of these creations.
Opening Reception Highlights: To make the opening reception truly special, live music would be performed by the students of Parivaadhini School of Music run by esteemed musician Lakshmi Lakshmanan. Let the soulful tunes enhance your experience as you explore the intricate details of the Madhubani masterpieces.
Save the Date: Ensure that March 2nd is marked on your calendar! This is an occasion not to be missed, and we encourage all members of our school community to attend and support the arts.
Join Us: We look forward to sharing this cultural experience with you and your family. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or just curious to explore, the opening reception promises an enriching and enjoyable evening for everyone.
Kathith Events
Rajasthani Gold Leaf Workshop
Kathith recently organized a Rajasthani Gold Leaf Art workshop, which is an art form from the royal city of Jaipur. Mr. Hemraj Kumawat, who is based in Jaipur, led the workshop and guided participants in making a beautiful square-shaped gold leaf piece. Mr. Kumawat is highly passionate about the ancient art of gold leafing and has been relentlessly supporting the traditional arts of Rajasthan, as well as helping revive Thikri art.
The workshop was held online on January 27th and 28th and received positive feedback, with participants “leaving with newfound knowledge, hands-on experience, and a finished project showcasing their skills,” as quoted by a participant on Instagram. Please do follow @kathith.kala on Instagram to learn about similar future workshops!
Pattachitra Ram Lala Workshop
On January 28th, Mr. Ashish Das, a reputed Pattachitra artist from Odisha, helped lead a free draw-along workshop. The online session taught participants how to draw Ram Lalla in the Pattachitra art style, a traditional art form from the state of Odisha.
Over 60 people joined to learn the beautiful art style and create a piece to remember. Mr. Das has recently completed a piece for the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, a prestigious accomplishment. Mr. Das also teaches Curriculum Pattachitra classes with Kathith. Visit @kathith.kala on Instagram to learn more about these classes and future free workshops!
Shilpa Shastra Curriculum Course
The Shilpa Shastra curriculum course has recently expanded and started two new online batches! These batches will be taught by esteemed gurus Shri. Bhaskar Sthapati and Mr. Ganesh Bhat.
Shri. Sthapati is a passionate artist specializing in Shilpa Shastra and Chola-Pallava art styles. He has a deep understanding of both these traditional arts due to his multi-generational expertise and masterful skill.
Shri. Bhat is also extremely accomplished in the Shilpa Shastras. As quoted from Kathith’s Instagram, these courses will take participants“on a journey of creativity and cultural heritage…Rooted in the rich traditions of ancient Indian art, these classes are designed to inspire, educate, and foster a deep appreciation for the artistic legacy that has stood the test of time…Whether you are a budding artist, a design enthusiast, or someone eager to delve into the roots of Indian culture, these classes are a must.”
If interested in joining one of these batches, please fill out this interest form and do not miss out on this huge opportunity to learn from the experts!
Artist Spotlight
Shri Ganesh Bhat
Shri. Ganesh Bhat is a master artist who is extremely skilled in ancient Shilpa Shastra sculpting and was one of the sculptors for iconic Ayodhya’s Ram Lalla. He comes from a family of artists and has 45+ years of experience sculpting intricate and precise pieces. Mr. Bhat is the recipient of over 50 prestigious awards, including the Karnataka State Award and the Aryabhata International Award. He has had his work showcased all over the world in places like India, the UK, Germany, France, the US, Italy, and Ireland. Currently, he is pursuing research in sculptural therapy and is working on publishing a book.
Kathith is very lucky to have him as one of the teaching artists for the Shilpa Shastra curriculum course, which is taught online on a weekly basis. Please fill out this form if interested in learning the timeless Shilpa Shastra arts from Shri. Bhat and various other acclaimed artists!
Featured Artist
This month’s featured artist is Anishka Gogoi!
Anishka Gogoi - Assam Village
“Hello, my name is Anishka Gogoi and I'm a sophomore at Bothell High School. This is my painting depicting a village scene from rural Assam, a state in Northeast India. I worked very hard to get the cultural details right and to have as many of them as possible. For example, the background includes things Assam is known for, like tea gardens, rice paddy fields, and Kopou Phool, the state flower of Assam. Pretty much everything from the border design, clothes, house structure, dancing circle, loom, fishing net, hat/dancing japi, etc. was intentional. Hope you like my painting!”
Activity Time
Congrats to Ritisha Saraogi for winning last month’s Nonogram challenge!
This time, we have a short trivia quiz!
Q1: What is the traditional name of Madhubani art?
Mithila Art
Hindu Art
Mythological Art
Canvas Art
Q2: Which region of India is Madhubani Art associated with?
Bihar
Maharashtra
Andhra Pradesh
Gujarat
Q3: Which of the following themes are commonly portrayed in Madhubani art?
Wildlife
Tribal Life
Hindu Mythology
Abstract shapes
Please email your answers to newsletter.thebeacon.dd@gmail.com for a chance to get featured in next month's newsletter.
