Circle of support

“Unless artistes support artistes there can be no awakening in our social and political systems to support and encourage art.” - The Quarterly Arts Series by Sapphire Dance Creations, Kolkata

I cannot agree with the above comment more. I wish we had a stronger support system amongst the various Indian schools of performing arts in the Sacramento region. In all the years I have been practicing dance in this area, I have felt a void of collaboration and mutual support. I might be wrong though and it is with the hope of some performer to walk up to me and say ‘wake up lady –we’ve been here all this while’, that I write this post. Please keep in mind that I am not saying I have not received any form of support from my fellow dancers – I’ve been very lucky in that aspect, but that support was more due to personal friendships.

I also think our audience needs to witness more collaborative work between these groups. With the amount of diverse talent and creativity it would be quite amazing to experience a conglomeration of the various art forms. Different groups sharing the same stage at a Diwali event is not what I am referring to in this context. I’m talking about collaboration in its true form – creating something together from concept to competition. Merging different styles and ideas and creating an explosion of all genres that results in painting one big picture – pure art. How wonderful would that be!

Here is my plea to all you artists out there – let’s not be in competition, rather let’s be there for each other and help each other preserve, create and educate all with what we do best. Let the arts of our country shine and touch the minds of our audience. Let’s support each other and help bring the true Indian experience to Sacramento.

Contact me at malapaul@sbcglobal.net to volunteer and participate in a collaborative workshop series this summer.