For Rudi D'Silva from Benaulim, art is not just a passion, it is a medium to showcase the environmental degradation that threatens Goa -whether it's mining or coal, deforestation or pollution in the sea andrivers. Rudi says it's his moral duty to make people aware of what they have and also what they could lose.
But more than this, his passion, he says, his art now has a sense of purpose as all the money generated from the sale of his paintings will go to help local children in need of school books, uniforms, fees and medical expenses. He took this social initiative four years back in memory of his son Blake and continued it with two exhibitions, each based on a different theme.
All his works convey his positive outlook reflected in the lively colours used. The exhibition - Goan Tapestry - to be held from December 19 to 26 is a collection of impressionistic landscape paintings, which bring out the breathtaking splendour surrounding us. Vivid colours flow from one shade to another in an almost abstract style bringing the work to life, at the same time creating a mood that can only be felt in Goa.
Along with the large landscapes, Rudi will also have on display a collection of various subjects like drawings of traditional workers of Goa, objects from the simple everyday life of Goa, Goan houses etc., all executed in different media like water colours, acrylics, pastels and pen.
The spectrum of feelings shows in his approach to each subject. Not content with a single medium, he dabbles in whatever he feels like at that moment. Often the subject dictates the medium.
Essentially, Rudi, who is a product of the Goa College of Art having passed out in 1988, says the exhibition is by a Goan, about Goa and for Goans.
"When someone asks me about all that I have invested in my works since I am not keeping anything from the sale for myself, I say I am paid fully when the money helps in making a difference in someone's life. However small it may be, I feel with art I can help make that difference," he mentions.
This year, Rudi will be exhibiting his works at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa at Benaulim from December 17, onwards. "From the day I approached them they have lent their support unconditionally and I am deeply grateful to them," he adds thankfully.
Most of the paintings that will be on display are works that have taken shape over one year and Rudi hopes that as always, the response this time too would be good.
