An initiative to connect communities through art

“Chennai is the Mecca of art and culture according to me, so we will be showcasing art installations, paintings, photographs and more by student artists and established individuals belonging to this state, at the mall’s premises in Anna Nagar,” she begins. The collaborators for this inaugural edition include Cholamandal Artists’ Village, Government College of Fine Art, Government College of Fine Art (Puducherry) and Government College of Fine Art (Kumbakonam).

She says, “The idea behind MAG is to connect with the communities The best way to achieve this is through art and culture because it plays such a big part in our lives.” Their past Pan-Indian art initiatives in Bengaluru and parts of Punjab have garnered positive feedback, she states.

By giving students an opportunity and platform to display alongside senior artists, it could encourage the youngsters of today to make it big tomorrow is Sumi’s belief. “Artists love creating but want people to see their work. An unprecedented number of people will be seeing their displays, through which the students can get the recognition and exposure they deserve,” she says.

MAG will also see screenings of art movies, an open air art bazar and competitions for school children being conducted through the month. “We are creating a win-win situation for audiences and artists this way,” she smiles. When asked if she thinks that art should be a personal choice or a necessity,” Sumi comments, “I’m an advocate of what Pablo Picasso once said — ‘Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life’. This is so relevant in this day and time when all of us are rushing about with our routines. Art is a necessity and, in fact, it has become therapy to treat people because it opens up a whole new dimension in someone.”

Cultural ambassadors, including art director Padma Shri Dr Thota Tharani and M. Senathipathi, President of Cholamandal Artists’ Village, along with key members of local art community, will be at the event. A curated discussion on the changing landscape of public art followed by a specially conceptualised sequence by Bharatnatyam dancer Rukmini Vijayakumar will ensue.