Panaji: For artist Hanuman Kambli, Mario Miranda was more than just a dear friend. He describes him as “a gentleman” with whom he “shared many conversations”. As a result, when he was invited by govt to paint in his honour, it was an emotional experience.Kambli is among the 12 artists from across Goa who have converged to create tribute artworks at the directorate of art and culture (DAC), Patto, marking the birth centenary of one of Goa’s best-known artists, Mario Miranda. The initiative brings artists together to exchange ideas, experiment with styles and reinterpret Miranda’s legacy through their own artistic lenses and will culminate on May 2 with a public exhibition of the artworks.“Mario Miranda was one of Goa’s finest artists whose work captured everyday life with honesty and charm. His contribution to art remains deeply valued and continues to inspire many. The aim of this camp is to strengthen appreciation for art and culture in Goa,” said director, art and culture, Vivek Naik.Chaitali Morajkar drew inspiration from Miranda’s cartoons while maintaining her own style, blending his whimsical line work with personal themes rooted in Goan culture. “His observational skills and humour are remarkable. A cartoonist needs sharp insight and wit, something that continues to inspire us,” she said.Many participants highlighted the influence of Miranda’s keen observational humour, intricate detailing and ability to capture everyday life. “I’ve adapted the theme of processions — often depicted in caricature — into my own stylistic framework,” said another participant, Julio D’Souza. “I’m incorporating line work as the essence of expression. It captures energy, time and emotion. That’s what made his work so powerful,” said Swapnesh Vaingankar.A recurring theme among the artworks is Goa itself — its people, architecture and everyday scenes. Artists incorporated familiar motifs such as fish, roosters, village taverna, courtyard homes and church processions, reflecting both Goa’s heritage and Miranda’s connection to it.The other artists are Nirupa Naik, Francis De Souza, Rajeshree Thakker, Vitesh Naik, Rajesh Salgaonkar, Shripad Gurav, Hitesh Pankar and Sandesh Naik.
