Different strokes

Such is the vast range of his observations that even a large collection of his works in a book format—named after him—is not enough to encompass his genius. The World of Mario,an exhibition curated by Gerard D’Cunha at Cymroza Art Gallery,attempts a more informed walk through his works till January 17.

The best of the exhibits are 26 volumes of his images,notes and diaries,which tempt visitors to sift though the world of Mario,as he was popularly known. True to Mario’s words— “In a way these drawings are biographical. I kept diaries of drawing instead of word”—the pages from his diaries are full of images and pithy notes which let out his teenage fascinations,life in college,the flurry activities on his street and others. They are also the best insight into the shaping of the legend.

D’Cunha agrees that in the recent years Mario has been less visible. “This has resulted in a large section of youths not being acquainted with his works. The book of his works and the exhibition are attempts at making him more accessible,” says the curator. However,the fact that Mario,despite being absent due to failing health,could draw many renowned Mumbaikars to the exhibition’s opening was proof enough that he is not far from public memory.

The exhibition has prints of his works,postcards,cards and books for sale. This allows visitors to take a slice of Mario’s world,complete with his quintessential humour,home. The portfolio of six detailed images each of Macau,New York,Paris and Germany explain why the globetrotter artist was invited by various countries to depict their people and places. The exhibition reveals how Mario picturised Japan and London. Closer home,Goa remained his abiding love as multiple panels dedicated to his sketches and images of this tiny Indian state disclose.

After creating a world of delightful characters like Rajni Nimbupani,Moonswamy,Mr Bundaldass and Miss Fonseca for various publications,Mario retired to a quite life in Loutolim,Goa. There are plans of setting up an archive of his works in Goa.