Dr. Baljinder Singh Gill is no newcomer to splashing news. His modest attempts to bring colour into the life of underprivileged children and to acquaint as many as possible with the joys of the brush got him to Ahmedabad over the weekend.
In a candid chat with VOI, Dr. Gill speaks his mind and puts forward his wish:
Q. Tell us about this road trip from Punjab to Ahmedabad?
A. Three years ago, I undertook a similar trip from Chandigarh to Pune. That was India’s first artsy road trip. Saravni Fera on a bike was aimed at rural pockets to teach children about art and distribute paint and accessories. This trip is planned on similar lines. The last time around, actor and social activist Sonu Sood joined in. This is a solo show
Q. A few words on the genesis…
A. I was born with a gifted knack for colours. In 2010, I shifted to Chandigarh from a small village in Punjab. The difference in terms of exposure to learning or learning aids was huge. I realized the immense potential buried deep in Indian villages. Talent never comes up from these rural areas because they are denied technical learning and material. In 2016, I enrolled at the Pune College of Fine Arts to further fortify my art. However, deep within was the desire to reach out to the many children who never get a chance with colours except when etching out with rocks and chalks on village grounds.
Q. How do you plan to proceed?
A. “Indian Creative Unity.” I have culled this artistic platform of willing artists from across the nation. We are already a group of 160, and the numbers are growing. The aim is simple. “Art For All and All For Art.” This same banner is associated with the world’s “longest painting” of the sports legend Milkha Singh.
Q. The one purpose you associate with your name…
A. The primary purpose is to change society’s mindset towards art and support children who want to explore it further. We want to create a resource bank where talent does not need the stamp of formal institutions.
Q. Your take on the future of Indian artists and art?
A. We have to explore options. Indian artists need more exposure. So many names get clouded under the blanket of the top dozen names in the international circuit. Our art is so diverse and yet so relevant. We need the proper avenues to channel its display.
Q. What next?
A. I hope to get a lending hand from leading names and art galleries in all states and UTs of India. Once the route is a map, the travel will become easier. My latest venture is a painting event of the hockey legend. We are targeting an August 15 deadline. In the pipeline is an “environment-based artwork” of actor Sonu Sood. His charitable heart needs to be celebrated through the joys of colour.
Q. On a parting note…
A. ‘Boond boond se sagar bharta hai’. Look after Mother Nature. She is the source of all life and all inspiration. Each plant one is a message that I resonate with. The world will be happier if each of us plants a tree on our birthday.
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