VINIKA VISWAMBHARAN | NT BUZZ
When artists decide to see the world through sketchbooks instead of screens, something magical happens. And that’s exactly what the Urban Sketchers Goa chapter is inviting everyone to experience at the first-ever Goa Sketchers Carnival, happening from November 14 to 16 at Dr F. L. Gomes Garden, Campal.
The three-day festival will bring together artists, students, and enthusiasts for seven sketch walks, seven live demos, and an Art Market, turning Panaji into a living, breathing canvas of colour, community, and creativity.
The idea was born from the global Urban Sketchers movement — an international network of artists who draw the world as they see it, in the moment. Goa’s chapter, led by founding administrator Darpana Athale and co-administrators Andrea Fernandes and Leandra Fernandes, have been capturing Goa’s moods for years, from its heritage homes and quiet lanes to the lively chaos of its markets.
According to Athale, the seed for the carnival was planted at the Sketch Gala in Thrissur earlier this year. “Each Urban Sketchers India chapter hosts regional festivals, and when we expressed our interest, everyone agreed instantly. Goa is vibrant, colourful and deeply rooted in culture. It felt like the perfect setting,” she says.
This marks Goa’s first sketching festival, and excitement runs high. “We’re a small but passionate team,” says Andrea. “Our admin group, a core committee and volunteers have all come together to make this happen.”
The heart of the festival is Dr F. L. Gomes Garden, a leafy space in Campal chosen for its accessibility and natural charm. “Other venues were either unavailable or too expensive during IFFI,” explains Athale. “The mayor and CCP were very supportive, and gave us permission to host it here. It’s open, green and perfect for an art gathering.”
From this central hub, artists will head out on seven sketch walks through Panaji’s most scenic and culturally rich areas: Campal, Fontainhas, the Adil Shah Palace, Panaji Church, the Post Office, Panaji Market and Old Goa. “Each place has its own rhythm and character,” says Leandra. “Through sketching, we hope participants experience Goa beyond its beaches; in its ‘poders’, its architecture, its festivals, and in the warmth of its people.”
The date, November 14, coinciding with Children’s Day, was chosen for its spirit of celebration. “It marks a cheerful start,” says Andrea. “Plus, with the Heritage Walk Festival and IFFI around the same time, visitors can enjoy Goa in many
different ways.”
What makes Urban Sketchers special is its inclusivity. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a professional, everyone is welcome,” says Athale. “We don’t compete; we connect. Each artist has a unique point of view, and that’s what makes sketching together so inspiring.”
In an age of digital tools and AI, the group finds meaning in the simplicity of drawing by hand. “Handmade art has soul,” says Leandra. “Each sketch carries the energy and imperfections of the artist. It’s honest, human, and can’t be replicated by a machine.”
Locals, too, have embraced the sketchers warmly. “People are curious when they see us sketching,” says Athale. “They often stop to chat, offer us chai, or just smile. We become part of the landscape we’re drawing.”
Urban Sketching, for the team, is more than art; it’s a way of seeing. “It’s meditative, healing and joyful,” says Andrea. “After every Sunday SketchMeet, we always end with chai and laughter. That’s our
little ritual.”
Beyond drawing, the Goa Sketchers Carnival aims to celebrate culture and community. The Art Market, open to all, will showcase local artisans, handmade merchandise, and Goa-inspired artworks. The organisers also plan to collaborate with the Tourism Department and CCP to document Goa through illustrated projects and
future publications.
As the sketchers prepare to fill their pages with Panaji’s colours and contours, Athale sums up the spirit of the festival beautifully: “We just hope everyone leaves with fun, laughter and a slice of Goa’s soul.”
(Registration for the SketchWalks and demos is available on urbansketchersgoa.in, while the Art Market welcomes everyone)
