NEW DELHI:
Artworks created in a collaboration of artists with eminent politicians including Prime Minister Narendra Modi besides boxer Mary Kom, actor Shahrukh Khan and dance maestro Birju Maharaj are set for a charity auction next week.
The auction “India on Canvas” by Khushii, an NGO headed by cricket legend Kapil Dev, is set for January 15 at British High Commissioner’s residence here. The upcoming fourth edition of the auction containing around 100 artworks is scheduled to be conducted by global auctioneers Sotheby’s.
Artist Satish Gupta has created “Om Namo Shivay,” a mix of painting and sculpture as a tribute to Lord Shiva.
“Om Namo Shivay is the chant for Lord Shiva. The PM has also been called Namo, I have tried to link the two in my artwork. The PM appreciated my work and has actually painted a few strokes on the canvas,” Gupta said.
Congratulating Kapil Dev for his “exceptional contribution in this endeavour”, Modi in a message to the NGO said, “His efforts are an inspiration for us all.”
The base price for the auction has been estimated at Rs 1.5 lakh.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has also lent brush strokes to Gupta’s painting on Lord Vishnu, said the artist.
Olympic medalist Mary Kom collaborated with artist Seema Kohli to create a mixed media piece. “I am very happy to have been given the opportunity to paint with Seema for such a good cause,” the boxer said.
Kohli said she has also collaborated with Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, architect-interior designer Alpana Kirloskar and Sakshi Salve.
Among other personalities who have collaborated with artists include Attorney General Mukul Rohtagi, Bollywood personalities Vishal Bharadwaj, and Farah Khan as well as author Chetan Bhagat.
“Proceeds of the auction will contribute to the future of the over 5,000 children that Khushii looks after,” Vivek Khushalani, President of the NGO, said. Established 12 years ago the NGO works towards providing healthcare and mid-day meals to underprivileged school children. (AGENCIES)