Goemkarponn desk
MAPUSA: JCI Mapusa organized The Vamona Navelcar Art Festival 2024 to celebrate the 95th birthday of the esteemed artist on May 26, 2024.
The All Goa Drawing competition, themed Love, Peace, and Harmony, took place at Cujira, Bambolim. The competition featured three categories: Open, for participants of all ages; 8-10 std; and 5-7 std.
Vamona Ananta Sinai Navelcar hailed as a state treasure of Goa, was born in Pomburpa village. He gained renown for his mastery of Christian figurative art, having studied and worked in Portugal, Mozambique, and Goa.
Kashinath Chari clinched the top spot in the open category, crediting his mentor in realistic art for his success. Advait A. Devali of Sarvodaya High School, Curchorem, emerged as the winner in the 8-10 std category, while Shamika R. Golatkar triumphed in the 5-7 std category.
Artists from various walks of life, including college students, adults, and schoolchildren with a passion for art, showcased their talents in the competition. Mario Pimenta, a student artist, expressed his appreciation for the learning experience, despite not winning any prizes.
Siddesh Gaunekar delivered the Vamona Navelcar Memorial Lecture, enlightening the audience about careers in fine arts and its various fields. Deserving students with artistic aptitude were honored with Vamona Navelcar Memorial Scholarships.
Chief Guest Gaurish Dhond paid tribute to Vamona Navelcar, acknowledging him as a distinguished artist whose legacy will endure. He expressed eagerness for future participation and emphasized the importance of supporting the arts.
JCI President Sonali Shetgaonkar reflected on Vamona Navelcar’s significant contributions, noting that he remained relatively unknown for a considerable period. She mentioned that the festival, now in its second edition, was inaugurated in 2023 with the support of the Navelcar family.
