When artists Archis Bidwe and Ganesh Ulhalkar first visited Goa in 2018 after their wedding, they never imagined they'd discover a calling in art.
“We came like every other young couple, excited to explore beaches and popular hangouts,” recalls Ganesh. “But soon, we began to see a different Goa — layered, rich, and waiting to be explored beyond the tourist lens.”
That journey has now culminated in ‘Voice of Freedom’, an art exhibition that pays tribute to Goa’s Kaavi Kala (Kaavi art) and to a woman who helped shaped Goa's identity — freedom fighter and Padma Shri awardee, Libia Lobo Sardessai, who turned 101 yesterday, May 25.
ART REIMAGINED, HISTORY REMEMBERED
Based in Mumbai-Thane, Archis and Ganesh are both art educators. While Ganesh teaches at an international school, Archis works with students at a special needs school. Together, they’ve dedicated themselves to reviving Kaavi art, a once-flourishing Goan art technique that uses natural red soil pigment, set against lime backgrounds, to form intricate wall designs.
“Kaavi art fascinated us,” says Archis. “But, instead of replicating it traditionally, we decided to evolve it by bringing a contemporary voice to a historical art form.”
Ganesh adds, “We took inspiration from Kaavi and developed our own language with an aim is to preserve its soul while making it accessible and relevant to modern audiences.”
HONOURING LIBIA'S COURAGE
At the heart of their 14-piece exhibition is the powerful narrative of Libia Lobo Sardessai — freedom fighter, writer, broadcaster, and one of Goa’s most compelling yet under-recognised voices.
“We first came across her story at the Aguad Interactive Museum, in Sinquerim,” Ganesh shares. “We were so moved by her courage and contributions that we felt compelled to dedicate this entire series to her.”
Libia played a crucial role during Goa's liberation, and has been credited for her daring efforts of operating an underground radio station during Portuguese rule.
Although the artists have met Libia, she hasn’t seen the paintings, yet. “We hope she does,” Archis says. “Because this work is not just about her — it’s a tribute to every woman who speaks up, who challenges norms, and who contributes silently to history.”
Born in Portugal and raised in Mumbai, Libia Lobo Sardessai defied the expectations of her time, actively supporting India’s freedom struggle. She later became a literary and cultural force in Goa, and through her writing and broadcasting, she advocated for women’s rights, education, and the preservation of Goan identity.
A CALL TO REFLECT
‘Voice of Freedom’ is more than a showcase of artworks — it's a cultural bridge that invites viewers to re-examine Goa’s heritage through a new lens.
“We want people to see Goa as more than a vacation spot,” says Ganesh. “There is a deep, rich history here that deserves to be celebrated.”
By blending a nearly lost art form with the story of a woman who helped shape Goa’s political and cultural legacy, Archis and Ganesh echo the very theme of their exhibition — giving voice to freedom.
“We believe art can open up forgotten stories,” Archis reflects. “Kaavi Kala and Libia Lobo Sardessai — both are parts of Goa’s heritage that need to be remembered, reinterpreted, and passed on.”
For more stunning paintings on Libia Lobo Sardesai in the Kavi style, check out the 'Voice of Freedom' exhibition.
DETAILS
WHAT: ‘Voice of Freedom’ art exhibition
WHERE: Sanskruti Bhavan, Central Library, Patto, Panjim
WHEN: Till Monday, May 26, 2025
TIMINGS: 1 pm — 4 pm
CONTACT: +91 77180 05618