Junior SIMA Seascapes Competition
The annual Junior SIMA (Society of Indian Marine Artists) exhibition and ‘on the spot’ seascapes painting competition for children, was held in the cool and tranquil ambience of the Empress Garden, Pune on Sunday 22 Nov 15. Forty children, coming from different local schools, took part.
The event began with a demonstration by Mr Prateek Tandon, a professional artist member of SIMA, on how to paint a seascape, and was keenly observed by the children standing around him. On the spot painting competition of one hour duration followed, after announcing the subjects for the three categories by age. The subjects were, underwater sea animals, fishing and fishermen at sea and light houses, and lastly, the sports activities on a beach. The competition was conducted in her irrepressible, friendly style by the Junior SIMA Secretary, Mrs Anuradha Thakur. She has truly made herself indispensable over the years since she has been in charge of junior SIMA.
While the three judges, who are members of SIMA, Mr and Mrs Dhadnekar and Mrs Nalini Kunte, got down to examining the paintings, a maritime quiz was conducted by Cmde R Vir, President of IMF and SIMA. The questions ranged from the names of naval ships, to climate change and the world’s oceans. The popular question every year is why among the five great oceans of the world one is named after India?
Prize distribution followed, with certificates for all the participants. Trophies were awarded to the prize winners in the three categories. The three judges and the demo artist received mementos for their help. The much awaited snacks and refreshments came next for the children, as well as tea for the parents.
During the event, Mr Pingle, a senior trustee and the General Secretary of the Empress Garden, dropped by and was delighted to see what he called a welcome and laudable activity being undertaken for children in the garden. It was truly a fun-filled morning, much looked forward to by us every year. At the end of it, we hoped that a little sea-mindedness and pride was injected in the young minds present there.
