Lissy Maruthanakuzhy
Panaji, Jan 6, 2025: An exhibition organized in conjunction with the exposition of the relics of Saint Francis Xavier featured 62 Goan artists from different religious backgrounds.
The “Footprints of Hope” was held at St John of God Convent, Old Goa. The 45-day exposition ended on January 5.
The exhibition depicted the life and mission of Saint Francis Xavier, through various styles, mediums, and symbols, offering the visitors, a contemplative journey into Goa’ spiritual legacy.
Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão of Goa and Daman opened the exhibition on November 17. The prelate emphasized the saint’s lasting impact on the identity and culture of Goa.
Present on the occasion were Auxiliary Bishop Simião Purificação Fernandes of Goa and Daman, Father Henry Falcão, the convenor of the Exposition Committee, as well as the curators and contributing artists.
Father Carlos Luis, one of the organizers, said the art exhibition offered Goans and pilgrims worldwide a unique chance to reconnect with their faith, inviting a deep and transformative experience.
“I am sure this encounter through the paintings will lead to an experience that will inspire a renewal of conviction and strengthen consciences amid today’s challenges, drawing everyone closer to a life of compassion and integrity, anchored in St Francis Xavier’s legacy,”” he added.
Father Délio Mendonça, curator of the exhibition, said the exhibition could inspire viewers to strengthen their respect for the religious and cultural diversity that characterizes Indian civilization.
Namisha Pinto, who was associated with the exhibition from its initial stages, said, “I was in touch with all the participant artists more than a year. We visited them personally sharing with them the theme of the exhibition. Some agreed and became part of the program while some others refused join.”
Clarice Vaz, a professional nurse turned artist, whose artwork done by syringe, was bought by Cardinal Fipe Neri Ferrao.
The 60-year-old woman said she took seven months to complete the work. “Using syringe, I did a Kunbi Saree on Canvas before drawing the pictures of St Francis Xavier in the middle, surrounded by churches, Khazan lands, and various Goan cultural presentations.”
She said she had tried to depict the Indigenous culture of Goa. “For me, my paintings are spiritual experiences,” added the writer and painter for the past 13 years.
Doctor Razia, a homeopathic who practices art as a hobby, painted a picture of the relics of St Francis Xavier as seen in the casket.
“When they approached me with the theme: Footprints of Hope, the thought came to me was the story of the seed. When a seed is consumed only person benefits. But when a seed dies it gives birth to a tree that grows big and give shade and fruits to many people. Likewise, St Francis Xavier is a seed of Faith that nourished spiritually a lot of people. And that is my theme,” she explained.
Except two, all paintings were sold in the first week.