You now don’t need millions to buy art

New Delhi: The CIMA Art Mela which started in 2008 in Kolkata was conceptualised to bridge the gap between the inaccessibility of art and the desire to own one. The fair is inspired by Nobel laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore’s Nandan Mela that was introduced about a century ago in Santiniketan to inculcate the love for art in every individual.

In an interaction with Deccan Chronicle, Rakhi Sarkar, Founder CIMA, gives an insight into the changing scenario of the young artist in India and how CIMA provides a platform to the young talents who love and appreciate art in various forms.

On changing scenario of young artists   

There are excellent emerging artists emanating from smaller towns and semi-urban regions of India. The future of Indian art lies there. CIMA awards, a biennial art awards programme is establishing that over and over again. They are bold, confident and speaking in terms that are intrinsically their own. Yet they are extremely contemporary and sophisticated. They do not use jargon and are authentic and unique and stand on their own.

On art appreciation by the young collectors

Young collectors should not collect from an investment angle only. They must be encouraged to relate with art and train their eyes to distinguish between the sublime and the ridiculous. Seeing good and profound art, reading on art movements, on the life and times of significant artists gradually improves and expands their conceptual nuances and helps appreciate good art.

On the role of CIMA in bridging the gap

Hundreds of first-time collectors are flocking to the CIMA art mela to acquire a genuine piece of authentic art. Art that is screened professionally by informed eyes, priced reasonably and fully guaranteed as genuine through valid receipts of purchase, and stamped hologram. Should the question of resale arise there should be no issue. This has made CIMA art mela a stepping stone for first-time buyers. They tend to trust CIMA.

On its vision to make art affordable

Art cannot be the sole domain of the wealthy only. It should percolate to anyone and everyone who shows interest and love for the arts. CIMA has made art available to one and all and in the process has created a democratic platform- connected young art buyers with talented young artists; broken barriers between so-called high and low. The very famous are exhibited alongside the new emergent and a new equitable prospect has emerged for art lovers. These are exciting times!

On the relevance of CIMA Award

Artists are chosen to suit the city where art mela is held. Priority is given to local artists. While established artists do not need introduction and validation, emerging artists are by and large selected from the lists of CIMA award nominees and award winners. They go through meticulous screening and are impeccable in terms of quality and talent. Above all, every piece of art is authentic and reflective of true indigenous sensibilities.

On the investments made

Art Mela barely covers the expenses which are extremely high. At the end of a good year, there could be a minor profit of 10- 15%. CIMA invests in this project out of a twofold belief:

Lovers of art must get an opportunity to collect and learn to sustain and support creativity.

Secondly, help young artists to sustain the initial years of practice by providing them with a democratic platform and ready clientele.