JOURNEYOFANINSPIRINGGOANARTIST

pursuit coincided with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing her to complete her studies entirely online. This unexpected challenge did not deter her determination to excel as a fine art student. During her time at MIT Pune, Ankita also undertook an enriching oneyear internship under the guidance of sculptor Bharati Pitre in Pune, adding another dimension to her artistic skill set.

In the picturesque land of Goa, where creativity thrives amidst the coastal beauty, emerges a young artist whose passion and dedication to art inspire many. Meet Ankita Naik, a talented and self-taught artist who has carved a niche for herself in the world of art. From humble beginnings in Bicholim to honing her skills at renowned institutions, Ankita's artistic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In this article, we delve into the life and works of this young Goan artist, exploring her experiences, triumphs, and the missing pieces that complete the puzzle of her inspiring story.

1. Early Life and Education

Ankita Naik's roots lie in the charming town of Bicholim, where she was born and raised She attended Shri Shantadurga High School for her primary education and later moved on to Shantadurga Higher Secondary School for her secondary education. Her artistic flair began to take shape during her formative years, and it soon became evident that art was her true calling.

Ankita pursued her passion for art by enrolling at the prestigious Goa C o l l e g e o f A r t , w h e r e s h e specialized in portraiture during her four-year bachelor's program

Seeking further growth and knowledge, she decided to pursue a master's degree in fine arts at MIT University, Pune. Unfortunately, her

2. Discovering Art as a Passion Ankita's initial inspiration came from her sister, igniting a spark of creativity within her. However, her journey soon transformed into a deeply personal exploration of selfexpression, as art became her escape from the rigors of reality. What started as a hobby evolved into an all-consuming passion, leading her to experiment with various artistic mediums to convey her thoughts and emotions. Ankita's art mainly revolves around themes such as self-portraiture, capturing the essence of her surroundings, and immortalizing life's fleeting moments.

3. Artistic Endeavors

Ankita Naik's artistic repertoire is diverse and impressive. Known for her captivating live portraits and outdoor paintings, she often collaborates with fellow artists to create unique and memorable art pieces. Beyond that, her artistic talent extends to commissions for personalized portraits, intricate wall murals, and striking glass paintings, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft.

In addition to her commissioned works and live paintings, Ankita actively participates in pop-up events in Goa, connecting with art enthusiasts and collectors to showcase her latest creations.

4. Embracing the Learning Process

For Ankita, the pursuit of knowledge is a never-ending journey. She firmly believes in continuously learning new techniques and approaches while sharpening her observation skills. Taking breaks to refresh her mind is another essential aspect of her learning process, enabling her to return to her art with renewed creativity and enthusiasm.

5. The Challenges of Freelancing

As a freelance artist, Ankita faces the inevitable ebbs and flows of the market. Some months are filled with a deluge of orders, putting her artistic skills and time management to the test. However, she also experiences periods with few commissions, making it challenging to sustain her passion solely through freelancing. Moreover, pricing her artwork presents its own set of challenges as she strives to strike a balance between fair compensation and attracting clientele.

6. Awards and Recognitions

Ankita's talent has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous accolades she has received Notably, she secured first place in the painting and graphic category at the State Art Competition in 2016, and in 2019, she was honored with the prestigious Prafulla Dahanukar Award in the student category Her accomplishments have transcended regional boundaries, with her first-place win in the portrait category at the national painting competition and workshop held in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, in 2022, as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. More recently, her exceptional talent earned her a commendable entry award at the competition organized in memory of the late Dr. Pedro Cabral Adão in 2023 at Art Chamber Calangute.

Ankita's commitment to nurturing the art community in Goa is reflected in her role as a moderator for the "Modern and Contemporary Art of

Goa" Facebook page, an initiative started by artist Norman Tagore to promote and support local artists in the region.

7. Aspirations and Message

While Ankita's future remains unplanned, she is committed to putting in hard work and dedication each day, paving the way for new opportunities and growth. Through her art, Ankita aims to inspire others to pursue their creative passions without fear of judgment. Her works encourage individuals to embrace their true artistic calling, fostering a community of self-expression and creativity.

Crafting Art that Resonates

Ankita Naik's artistic journey serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance From her early days in Bicholim to garnering recognition on national platforms, Ankita's artistic odyssey has been a source of motivation for aspiring artists and enthusiasts alike. As she continues navigating the world of freelancing and creative expression, her unyielding dedication to her craft and her ability to inspire others make her a young Goa gem to watch out for in the ever-evolving art world. The art event 'Amplify' by the Altmira initiative and her active involvement in the art community add further dimensions to her already inspiring tale of artistic growth and success.