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Journalism of Courage
As art connoisseurs began walking through the doors of Visual Arts Gallery at India Habitat Centre for an art showcase that promises to offer affordable art, Rakhi Sarkar, founder of Centre of International Modern Art (CIMA), was carefully scanning the works that were soon to go into the homes of potential collectors. “The works have started moving even before the formal opening. Our aim with the showcase is to make art more accessible and less intimidating,” said Sarkar.
In equal parts excited and eager to share art with veteran collectors and the young at the seven-day CIMA Art Mela that opened on March 24, Sarkar noted that the event — taking place after a three-year break due to the pandemic — is much-awaited. “In a country like India where museums and large projects are few and there is little awareness about art, this needs to be done… The project is very important in both directions, for young collectors and professionals, the intelligentsia, people who have depth, learning and curiosity; they might not have very deep pockets but do have some disposable income,” she added.
The showcase features over 1,500 works by over 80 artists. Priced from Rs 5,000 to Rs 3 lakh, the display features, among others, Lalu Prasad Shaw for Rs 48,000 upwards, and Jogen Chowdhury from Rs 75,000 to 2,50,000. While collectors can take home a Paresh Maity for Rs 1,25,000 onwards, large canvases by young artists are priced from Rs 40,000 to Rs 1,50,000. Graphic art will see a price tag of Rs 5,000 to Rs 90,000. A substantial collection of folk and tribal art is priced Rs 5,000 upwards. “There are several renowned artists. Younger artists, too, are national or state award winners, or CIMA award winners. What you are buying is authentic, verified art,” said Sarkar, who first started the Affordable Art Mela in Kolkata in 2008.
She added, “There is an element of surprise — in getting an unknown artist or an unusual work of a known artist. Several of them do playful and experimental works that may not be displayed in a mainstream exhibition.”
Delhi-based artist Paresh Maity, who has been sharing works for the venture, notes, “Art is meant for all and with this initiative an original artwork can go to everybody. Many who may not be able to afford a major work of a renowned artist, can make a purchase here.”
Sarkar launched the mela in Delhi in 2018, and in 2020, took it to Mumbai. It is based on Kala Bhavana’s (Santiniketan) famed Nandan Mela, which began in 1973 as a fundraiser, and then became an annual event to raise funds for students’ welfare at the institute.
For her mela, Sarkar is in touch with artists throughout the year. “We have to give them time to prepare, and they are very kind about sharing works at discounted prices,” said Sarkar, who recalls several young collectors making their first purchase at the mela.
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