Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Dec 22: 'Kala Vaibhav', an exhibition of paintings by Winnie Rodrigues opened at SDM Law College Auditorium here on Sunday December 20. Marceline Lobo, wife of the late Peter Lobo inaugurated the exhibition.

Ganesh Somayaji, founder of Artists Combine addressing the gathering said, "Winnie has created 108 paintings on a single subject of waterfalls. Many paintings on a single subject is unique and a record. Talent of an artist should be exhibited and it should reach the people."

He also said that districts like Mysuru, Hassan and Madikeri are ahead in giving importance to art, as compared to Dakshina Kannada. "In Mangaluru, artists have been demanding the administration to set up a district art gallery from many years. We have requested the deputy commissioner to convert the old(existing) DC's office building into an art gallery and he gave a positive response. People as well as officers should support this."

Srividya, CEO of ZP in her address congratulating Winnie Rodrigues and said, "After marriage, women generally put aside their talents and sacrifice their dreams for their family. Talents should be brought forth. Winnie has wonderful talent and she has made good use of it. It is a blessing that will motivat others."

Responding to Ganesh Somayaji's demand for an art gallery, she said, "We will consider your demand and bring it to the notice of the Kannada and culture department."

Dr Devaraj, director of SDM College of Business Management said, "I was really astonished on seeing the artworks by Winnie. I know Winnie from her college days as I was her teacher, and I know that she had a keen interest in art. Talent should not be suppressed. When there is confusion in the mind, we should divert our attention to art."

Gerald Fernandes, founder of BGM School of Art, Shabbbir Ali, instructor, BGM School of Art, K K Prasad Alva, proprietor of Prasad Art Gallery and others were present.