6 minute read
Akash Naik
In the vibrant world of Indian art, Akash Purushottam Naik has carved out a niche as a distinguished rangoli artist. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Goa College of Art specialising in sculpture, Akash's journey is a captivating tale of passion, innovation, and dedication. His remarkable invention of Permanent Rangoli has revolutionised this traditional art form, allowing it to flourish in contemporary settings. This article delves into Akash's artistic journey, exploring his inspirations, techniques, challenges, and future aspirations.
Early Inspirations and Education
Born with a deep-rooted passion for art, Akash has loved creating rangoli since childhood. He fondly recalls experimenting with different patterns and colours, fascinated by how they transformed spaces during festivals. After completing his education in sculpture, he focused on blending traditional techniques with modern artistry. His academic background not only provided him with technical skills but also ignited his creativity, motivating him to push boundaries in his art.
The Birth of Permanent Rangoli
The journey toward developing Permanent Rangoli was driven by Akash's desire to elevate traditional rangoli into a lasting art form. Unlike temporary designs typically made from coloured powders, his innovation utilises limestone powder, lake, and pigment colours. This unique combination ensures that the rangoli remains vibrant and intact for an extended period. Akash's artistic style emphasizes themes related to Goan culture, reflecting his passion for celebrating his heritage.
The Process of Creating Rangoli Art
Akash’s process for creating rangoli art is simple yet profound. It begins with the drawing, followed by the application of pigments and lake colours. Finally, the artist's dedication breathes life into the artwork. His techniques focus on patterns and designs, emphasizing lines and the merging of colours. This method not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for creative expression, making each piece uniquely his own.
Memorable Achievements
Among Akash's many accomplishments, two stand out prominently. He had the honor of presenting a permanent rangoli portrait to the President of India, Hon. Smt. Droupadi Murmu, and the Prime Minister, Hon. Shri Narendra Modi. This recognition not only highlighted his artistic prowess but also showcased the cultural significance of rangoli in India.
Furthermore, Akash was awarded the Asia Book of Records title for creating the smallest floating portrait rangoli of Lord Saibaba. These achievements solidified his status as a trailblazer in the world of rangoli, inspiring many aspiring artists.
Overcoming Challenges
Throughout his artistic journey, Akash has faced numerous challenges. Initially, he struggled with a lack of proper rangoli colours and guidance, making it difficult to refine his craft. Moreover, the class sizes for rangoli were often small, which limited learning opportunities. However, through hard work and support from family and friends, he overcame these obstacles.
Akash especially credits his mother for her unwavering belief in him and her constant encouragement. Her motivation has played a significant role in his success. Today, he proudly owns Rankash Art Academy, where he trains about 200 students in the art of rangoli. This initiative not only allows him to share his knowledge but also ensures that this beautiful tradition continues to thrive.
The Cultural Significance of Rangoli
Rangoli holds a vital place in Indian culture, especially during festivals and celebrations. It serves as a medium for expressing happiness toward deities and sharing joy with the community. Akash emphasizes that rangoli is a way to welcome guests and express gratitude during festive occasions. By incorporating this art form into celebrations, people honor their traditions while enhancing the festive atmosphere.
To further promote the importance of rangoli, Akash conducts workshops annually, focusing on both traditional techniques and his invention of permanent rangoli. These workshops not only educate participants but also inspire them to explore their creativity.
A Memorable Creation
One of Akash's favorite rangoli designs is a portrait of Lord Ram, created during the pran pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. This project was special to him as it was a collaborative effort with his students. The 10-foot portrait made from permanent rangoli was not only a testament to their skills but also an embodiment of their dedication to this beautiful art form.
Passion and Creativity
For Akash, rangoli is more than just a hobby; it is a source of joy and creativity. He relishes the process of experimenting with colours, textures, and designs. The exploration of new ideas keeps his work fresh and engaging. He firmly believes that the more creative one is, the more genuine their work will be. This philosophy drives him to continually push the boundaries of rangoli art.
Staying Updated with Trends
To maintain relevance in the ever-evolving world of art, Akash stays updated on the latest trends and techniques in rangoli. He frequently attends orientation programs and workshops led by top rangoli artists across India. Additionally, he visits art exhibitions to gain inspiration and learn new methods. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that his work remains innovative and exciting.
Future Aspirations
Looking to the future, Akash has ambitious goals as a rangoli artist. He envisions taking the concept of Permanent Rangoli to an international audience, showcasing its significance and beauty on a global scale. By doing so, he hopes to elevate the status of this traditional art form and encourage others to appreciate its value.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
For those interested in learning rangoli, Akash offers valuable advice. He emphasizes the importance of seeking instruction from a proper rangoli academy or experienced artists. While rangoli has traditionally been viewed as an ancient practice for festivals, he encourages aspiring artists to explore the art of permanent rangoli as a viable career option. By doing so, they can secure their future and share their passion with others.
Conclusion
Akash Purushottam Naik's journey as a rangoli artist is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and resilience. Through his innovative approach to permanent rangoli, he has redefined traditional practices and elevated the art form's status. As he continues to inspire others through his academy and workshops, Akash’s influence on the world of rangoli will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on future generations.
