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In today’s fast-paced world, creativity often takes a backseat. Caught up in the relentless work cycle with little time for artistic expression, many are left with a sense of emptiness.
If you’re feeling the same and looking for an exciting way to engage with the art world, Diavola, a café in Anjuna, North Goa, is the place to be. Hosting sip-and-paint sessions every Sunday, the space has become a vibrant hub for art aficionados.
Experienced with start ups and helping small businesses with strategising, Kritika Kaushal, the café owner, felt the need to reclaim creativity in a busy world and she found a perfect outlet in her own space.
“Because of my job, I wasn’t able to dedicate a lot of hours in the kitchen cooking or the service station catering to guests,” shares Kritika. With only weekends at her disposal, she decided to do something she personally enjoyed and casually started the sip-and-paint sessions at the restaurant.
Initially, she’d just sit by herself at the café and paint, guiding any guests who joined in.
“Earlier, it was very free flowing, then I added some fees to it, had some complimentary drinks to enhance the sip-and-paint experience,” she explains. This, slowly created a thriving community space, drawing art enthusiasts from as far as South Goa.
Started almost 18 months ago, although she managed to keep it consistent every Sunday for a few hours, she got some help along the way, from like-minded individuals.
“After experimenting with different mediums, I began collaborating with institutes like The Canvas Art Academy, and met Neha. We became friends, and now, even if I’m not there, Neha conducts the sip-and-paint sessions at the café.”
The café also showcases these treasured creations from the sessions, while some artists have also put their artworks on sale.
“Neha has conducted watercolour and acrylic pour workshops previously, which helped us expand it to two events a week,” reveals Kritika who is now exploring collaborations with other artists.
Apart from the sessions, Diavola is a cosy space, organising karaoke sessions, live screening of matches and sometimes live music, quiz nights and even board game nights. Guests are welcome to relax, grab a beer or cocktails.
“We serve wood-fired thin crust pizzas and comfort Italian food,” says Kritika, who always had a goal to start a space of her own before she turned 30. “I knew I was going to hit that someday, so that’s how two years back, I decided I needed to have my own café in Goa.”
It took some savings and collecting money through friends and family, and a leap of faith to venture into the F&B industry with no prior experience.
But, despite being self-taught and navigating her way through, Kritika has managed to pursue her passion and inspire a sense of community and connection through her interactive art sessions.
This Saturday, August 24, 2024, the café will host its first glow-in-the-dark sip-and-paint session from 7 pm onwards. This innovative twist on traditional painting will be guided by Neha, combining art, fun and a touch of magic.
DETAILS
WHAT: Glow-in-the-Dark Sip-and-Paint session
WHERE: Diavola Restaurant, Art Café and Bar, Anjuna, North Goa
WHEN: Saturday, August 24, 2024 (7 pm onwards)
FEES: Rs 1,300 (inclusive of material)
TO REGISTER: +91 7042774536