Green Gallery

B S Talwar,who owns a cycle store and took part in the rally says,“I cycle regularly because I think I should walk the talk and stay true to my profession. Besides,it keeps me healthy.” About whether Puneites are taking to cycling he says,“Yes,and though it is primarily because of health concerns,it still ensures that there are fewer Bikes on the street. Cycling is one of the best options to stay fit.”

With a participation of over 30 artistes,the live painting session had the theme- Environment and the artists were free to paint their own interpretations of it. So while most artists depicted the scenic beauty of the garden,a few tried to make a statement by showing the destruction we are causing. Sudhir Deshpande,a sculptor who depicted his interpretation of a bleak future on the canvas says,“Colour black is dominant in my painting which signifies the fact that if we continue to destroy the environmental resources at this rate,there would be a day when the earth’s surface would look like this. It is sad that we need to be reminded that we have a responsibility towards the environment through such special days.”

Milind Sathe,founder-director,Indiaart Gallery says,“Indiaart has been hosting Artfest for four years now,but this is the first time we decided to hold the event in a public place with this kind of theme. In the beginning,it was restricted to art showcases at the gallery,but I wanted it to get out of the art exhibitions into the public sphere. Through the live painting event,we have tried to promote new talent while taking the art of painting to the masses. So,along with sending out a message for living a greener life,we create interest in the art form as well.”