Just like dominos, rightly placed in sequence, life circumstances sometimes nudge us towards the right path. And for Omkar Gaddankeri, the world of art unfolded through many twists and turns.
Born in Karnataka and nurtured by the vibrant culture of Goa, Omkar is a self-taught muralist from Porvorim who is leaving a mark on numerous spaces across the State. Having painted over 300 murals in Goa, his latest masterpiece can be found at the Sai Mauli Restaurant in Nachinola.
Omkar’s artistic journey began as a means to support his family. At 16, he had to abandon studies to work, forfeiting his dream of attending art college. Eight years later, heartbreak led him to a bookstore, and books led him to art.
“Breakups often bring in new realisations. While many struggle to channel that energy, I turned it into a passion and a career,” reminisces Omkar, adding, “The universe had a purpose for me.”
While working at the Bargain Book Hut in Mall de Goa, he discovered books that opened his eyes to new aspects of life, fuelling his insatiable curiosity for art.
“For Independence Day, I painted my first piece of glass at that very shop, rekindling my love for art and finding a source of income. No longer did I have to choose between passion and livelihood,” he shares.
Over the years, Omkar has gone on to create commissioned works, experimenting with diverse art mediums and styles, continuously evolving and learning something new each day.
“Commercial spaces in Goa not only appreciate art and artists but also provide ample opportunities to showcase their skills, often with generous compensation,” he notes.
Whether it’s the wall mural at the Red Fox Hotel in Morjim , a Warli wall painting for the All Indian Institute of Ayurveda or a Swacch Bharat campaign wall art at the Calangute Panchayat, his art serves as a tribute to Goa, a place that always resonates with him.
“The moment I step outside Goa, I start longing for it, especially for the xith kodi. Growing up here, enjoying the authentic cuisine, and experiencing the unique culture makes it hard to be away. I always find myself rushing back home for the food and the peace that only my beautiful Goa can offer,” says Omkar, adding that there’s also a supportive environment that encourages artists to thrive.
“For an artist, Goa is a paradise for learning architectural drawing, with its stunning natural landscapes always inspiring creativity. The environment here is perfect for sparking new ideas and artistic expressions,” he adds, noting that the art market in Goa stands out compared to the rest of India.
However, Omkar has also noticed a lack of support from the government, especially in taking steps to promote local artists and feature their work on flyovers and public properties. He advocates for organising events that engage artists from across the State.
“Many aspiring artists in Goa begin their careers with great enthusiasm, but often struggle to succeed due to the lack of a supportive environment. It’s crucial for the community to encourage and nurture the creative minds around them, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth,” he opines.
As Omkar's murals adorn the walls in Goa, they stand as a testament to his enduring spirit and his love for the State.
Check out Omkar’s art or reach out for some commissioned work
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