Posts

Showing posts from 2024

"Identity Exploration" Self -Portrait painting by MYP4 students

Image
  The Middle Years Programme (MYP), designed for students aged 11 to 16, emphasizes holistic development by addressing cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and creative dimensions. This approach nurtures well-rounded individuals rather than focusing solely on academic achievements. Creativity is essential for students, as it enhances problem-solving skills and fosters self-expression, enabling them to develop adaptability and collaboration skills crucial for navigating future challenges in a dynamic world. The MYP Visual Arts offers diverse opportunities for creating artwork in innovative ways, Students have the freedom to create artwork in 2D, 3D, or lens media. They can express their creativity using any medium they choose. This allows for a diverse range of artistic expression. each year I plan a new unit to encourage exploration. For MYP 4 this year, our unit is titled "Me, Myself, and I," focusing on self-portraiture. Students will have the chance to create artwork us...

The Charcoal drawing Journey

Image
I have been passionate about creating charcoal drawings since my college days. Charcoal, a versatile drawing medium made from charred wood or other organic materials, is primarily used on textured surfaces like paper. Its rich, dark tones, ease of blending, and ability to create dramatic contrasts—from subtle grays to deep blacks—make it a favorite among artists. Among the various types of charcoal available, my preferred medium is compressed charcoal, as I enjoy working with bold, dark tones. However, compressed charcoal is not limited to creating dark values; it also allows for a range of tones, from light to dark. In addition to compressed and vine charcoal, black and white charcoal offers further creative possibilities. For fine details, such as hair, I use charcoal pencils, while white charcoal is ideal for highlights. Let’s explore the key differences between charcoal and graphite. Both are carbon-based mediums, but they differ in texture, application, and effects. Charcoal is so...

"Exploring Pondicherry: A Perfect Blend of French Charm and Tamil Culture"

Image
                           Hi, I’m Sunil from Goa, India. A passionate traveler, explorer, and storyteller. This blog is my little corner of the internet where I share the adventures, experiences, and moments that make travel such a transformative part of life. Whether it’s finding hidden gems in far-off places, navigating bustling city streets, or relaxing on a remote beach, my goal is to inspire you to explore, discover, and wander the world with curiosity. I believe that travel isn’t just about visiting new places—it’s about connecting with cultures, meeting new people, and stepping outside your comfort zone. From practical tips to personal stories, I hope to offer a mix of inspiration and insights to help you plan your next trip, dive into local cultures, and make unforgettable memories along the way. Join me as I share our journey—one adventure at a time. Let’s travel together! For quite some time, my two friends...

"A Hidden Gem: Exploring the Ancient Tamdi Surla Temple in Goa"

Image
  Photo credit : Sunil Chawdiker I have a deep appreciation for visiting historical sites, especially temples and churches. Recently, during a trip to Goa, I had the chance to visit a very ancient temple that had long been on my wish list. Although I am a local Goan, this was my first time exploring this unique and hidden gem. The visit took place during the monsoon season, and the temple, nestled within a lush forest, looked even more captivating surrounded by vibrant greenery. The serene environment added an extra layer of enchantment to the experience. This temple is relatively unknown due to its remote location; the access route is narrow, and you have to navigate through the forest to reach it. Refreshment options are limited, but during the monsoon, you can enjoy traditional Indian snacks like onion bhajji, batata vada, and tea. If you're planning to visit Goa and are interested in exploring ancient architecture, I highly recommend making time for this place. Now, let's d...

Geometric radiance - Series of abstract paintings

Image
      Title: Geometric radiance  Each painting is 12x12 inches  Status: Available  Medium: Acrylic on canvas Price: Negotiable  This series of abstract paintings explores the vibrant interplay of yellow and orange tones, using geometric shapes and a clear focal point to draw the viewer's eye. Each piece is meticulously crafted with an emphasis on bold color contrasts and dynamic composition, where overlapping squares, circles, and triangles create a sense of depth and movement. The use of warm hues brings energy and warmth to the paintings, while the geometric structures introduce an element of precision and order, offering a harmonious balance between chaos and control. The central focal point of each piece serves as an anchor, directing attention while allowing the surrounding shapes to radiate outward, guiding the viewer’s experience. Texture plays a significant role in this series, achieved through the use of various tools and techniques that bring...

"Career Paths in Fine Arts"

Image
  S electing a career can be a challenging process, especially when we're young and influenced by our surroundings, people, media, and societal expectations. When I was younger, I never imagined that one day I would become an artist or an art facilitator, but here I am today. This journey has shown me how unpredictable and evolving our paths can be, and how important it is to stay open to possibilities as we grow and discover our true passions. Selecting a career path involves a thoughtful process of self-reflection, exploration, and research. Start by identifying your interests, strengths, and values, as these will help guide you toward fields that align with your passions and natural abilities. Consider factors such as job stability, growth potential, work-life balance, and compensation. Research various industries, talk to professionals in those fields, and even seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience. Ultimately, choose a career that not only off...

"Exploring Artistic Mediums"

Image
  Selecting the right medium and application in painting depends on your artistic intent and the desired effects. For example, oil paints are perfect for creating rich, deep colors and smooth blending, making them ideal for realistic and detailed work. during college, I frequently used oil colors to create portraits and creative paintings. it's a slow-drying medium that can be used along with the linseed oil and turpentine. it is one of the oldest mediums used by many known artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michele Angelo, and many more. Acrylics, on the other hand, dry quickly and are versatile, lending themselves well to both bold, abstract pieces and layered techniques. the best part of acrylic colors it is easy to handle and can be used either using the impasto technique or transparent. In recent years I have been using acrylic colors due to their flexibility and ease of use. Watercolors are great for delicate, transparent washes and fluid effects, artist often uses watercolor...

Awakening Artistic Passion

Image
                                                               Awakening Artistic Passion Teaching art to middle school students can be quite challenging, especially since this age group is navigating adolescence. As Pablo Picasso once said, “All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” There are various reasons why students may not take an interest in art, but teachers can play a vital role in developing that interest. One significant barrier is the lack of exposure to art. Many students do not have opportunities to explore different art forms or visit museums, which limits their appreciation for the subject. Teachers can arrange field trips to nearby museums or art galleries to broaden students' horizons. Another challenge is the perceived lack of relevance. Many students view art as unrel...

Title: Void

Image
  Title: Void Medium: Acrylic on canvas  Size  27x27 inches  In my painting "Void," I have sought to represent the universal experience of emptiness that we all encounter at some point in life. The central figure, a man with wings, stands as a symbol of the human condition—caught between aspiration and limitation. The wing, though a symbol of freedom and transcendence, is incomplete, echoing the idea that even in our moments of longing or potential, we often feel incomplete or disconnected. His posture, both grounded and reaching, invites the viewer to reflect on the tension between what we strive for and the space we feel inside us. The small window in the center of the painting offers a glimpse of the larger world outside—the sky above and water waves below—representing the duality of existence. The sky symbolizes the limitless possibilities, freedom, and the yearning for something beyond the tangible, while the water waves suggest the constant ebb and flow of emo...

Caricature

Image
  Self-portrait caricature                          Mahatma Gandhi Caricature, while an engaging art form, presents several challenges for artists. One key challenge is balancing exaggeration and accuracy; artists must skillfully amplify distinctive features to capture a subject's essence without distorting their identity too much. Additionally, cultural sensitivity is crucial, as caricatures can unintentionally reinforce stereotypes or offend individuals, making context and intent important considerations. Legal and ethical concerns also arise, particularly regarding copyright, defamation, and privacy issues. Moreover, audience reception varies, with humor perceived differently across cultural lines, potentially leading to misunderstandings. Finally, mastering the technical skills necessary for effective caricature creation requires significant practice and expertise, demanding a thoughtful and respectful approach fr...

The Somesvara Temple in Kolar, Karnataka- architectural marvel

Image
Recently my family visited the Somesvara Temple in Kolar, Karnataka, is a remarkable example of 12th-century Hoysala architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva, specifically in his form as Somesvara. The term "Someshwara" (or "Somesvara") is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Soma," meaning "moon," and "Ishvara," meaning "lord" or "god." Thus, "Someshwara" translates to "Lord of the Moon" or "God of the Moon." it is 62 km away from Bengaluru city and to reach the temple it takes approximately t2 hours by old Madras road. This beautiful temple was Constructed during the reign of the Hoysala dynasty, particularly under King Vishnuvardhana, the temple showcases the exquisite craftsmanship characteristic of Hoysala art, marked by intricate carvings and detailed sculptures. when you enter you will find a beautiful facade with intricately carved scenes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The templ...

Title: Divine Harmony

Image
  Title: Divine Harmony Medium: Acrylic on canvas  Size  27x30 inches  In "Divine Harmony," a vibrant and enchanting tableau unfolds, capturing the essence of the sacred union between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This captivating painting showcases the divine couple surrounded by lush landscapes, symbolizing their eternal bond and connection to nature. At the heart of the composition, Shiva and Parvati exude tranquility and strength, adorned with intricate patterns of leaves that reflect the vitality of their surroundings. Their figures are harmoniously integrated with a backdrop of majestic mountains, symbolizing stability and permanence. A gentle waterfall cascades nearby, representing the flow of life and the purifying essence of water. Flanking the central figures are Nandi, the sacred bull, and Ganesha, the beloved remover of obstacles, both depicted with warmth and reverence. Their presence adds depth to the scene, emphasizing the familial and protective asp...