The scenic state of Goa has given rise to very many artists, painters and sculptors. And, where there are artists, there are art exhibitions and art galleries.
Among the art galleries in North Goa, Ujwal Art Gallery in Vagator has become a beacon of artistic expressions and creativity, and has been instrumental in promoting local and international artists.
Situated in close proximity to Vagator beach and luxury hotels, JW Marriot and W Goa, Ujwal Art Gallery has many footfalls from visitors to the beach and guests in the hotels.
The owner of the gallery, Sudesh Pednekar, says, “The gallery’s collaboration of art with hospitality and tourism facilitates unique events and workshops that allow guests to engage with art on a more personal level.”
Sudesh, a graduate in Arts from Dhempe College of Arts & Science, Miramar, Panjim, followed his entrepreneurial endeavour and started a travel agency called Ujwal Communications in 2000, catering to domestic and international travellers, and offering enticing packages and tours.
With his customer-centric dedicated approaches, the business flourished, and although he did not practise art, his love for art persisted which led to him opening Ujwal Gallery, in 2014, for art enthusiasts like him.
He started by collaborating with the talented artists’ group, Art Inspired – comprising a group of Goan artists – and had his first show titled ‘Shubharambah’ in November 2014. The grand opening had numerous guests and it then created a venue for established and younger artists.
Since then, Sudesh has sponsored two major annual exhibitions – Chitrasangam and Goa Exhibit 2021 – apart from other events, which have become anticipated events, drawing art appreciators from near and far.
Over the years, several solo and group shows have been held at Ujwal Art Gallery, featuring artists from within as well as outside the state, such as Ritwik Jadav, Damodar Madgaonkar, Ubed Daruwala, Suraj Sharma, Rajani S Jade, Vishwanath V Guggari, Jyoti Mehta, Mohan Naik, Nandini Raikar, Rubina D’Souza among others.
Besides that, collaborations with national bodies such as Gujarat Rajya Lalit Kala Academy and Kala Sopan have also been held.
“I’m indeed very satisfied with my decision to start a gallery with basic financial support from the travel agency, and the cooperation of artists and customers. I believe passions and dreams can turn into reality, and am proud to say my gallery has left an indelible mark on the art scenario in Goa and the legacy of ‘Shubharambah’ continues, adding colour and creativity to the lives of those who cross its threshold,” Sudesh affirms.
He is also confident that as the gallery continues to grow and nurture artistic endeavours, it will captivate generations of art lovers as a treasure trove of creativity in Goa.
LOCATION: Ujwal Art Gallery, Vagator
CONTACT: +91 98220 14484
E-MAIL: ujwalartgallerygoa@gmail.com
