Art Stories, an evocative exhibition of paintings created by Persons with Disabilities and artists without disabilities, was inaugurated by Guruprasad Pawaskar, Commissioner, Commission for Persons with Disabilities, at Kala Academy as part of the ongoing Serendipity Arts Festival.
The exhibition brings together diverse artistic expressions that underline the belief that creativity transcends physical, sensory, and social barriers.
Appreciating the initiative, Pawaskar lauded Caritas Goa for using art as a powerful medium for inclusion and empowerment.
“Art has the extraordinary ability to uncover hidden potential and give voice to those often unheard. Art Stories beautifully demonstrates that persons with disabilities possess immense creative capabilities, and platforms like these are vital in fostering inclusion, dignity, and self-expression,” said
Pawaskar.
He further emphasised that art not only enables self-discovery but also plays a restorative role, nurturing confidence and emotional well-being, especially among persons with disabilities.
Fr. Maverick Fernandes, Director, Caritas Goa, spoke on the organisation’s commitment to inclusive development through creative engagement, while Lioba Knepple, Art Facilitator of the programme, highlighted the transformative journey of participants who used art as a healing and expressive tool.
Art Stories reflects the idea that artistic potential exists in everyone and that the very act of creation can be profoundly therapeutic. The exhibition features works by artists from Divya Sadan, St. Francis Xavier’s Vocational Centre, and participants of the ‘Art as a Healing Tool’ programme. Together, they narrate diverse life stories through colours, forms, and emotions, inviting viewers to look beyond the canvas—to truly see one another.
Curated by renowned curator Samira Sheth, the exhibition encourages audiences to pause, reflect, and recognise creativity as a shared human experience rather than a selective talent.
The exhibition will remain open to the public at Kala Academy until 21st December 2025. Ashita Abraham, Coordinator, Divya Sadan, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective efforts that made the exhibition possible.
