Holidaying with art

A meditation session underway

There are some who only know life lyrically, musically or artistically. The reasons to pursue art may vary, but most doers coincide on the contentment it communicates. Project Aaina, a digital platform rooted in reflection - best realised at the core of artistic pursuits - was started during the pandemic with a view to help people look deeper into their sense of selfhood. After a series of small-scale but pointed sessions on art and therapy, the team of three is now organising an artcation at Goa and Gokarna. This six-day-long artcation can enable you to re-align with your positive energies while starting the new year in a meaningful way.

The project's previous artcation at Kalga in Himachal Pradesh

When we ask Rajvi Vats, founder at Aaina, about why this trip is unique, she says, "Our explorations or art workshops are not meant for artists alone. They are meant for everyone. I've come across people who are hesitant to paint or sing or do things that relieve stress; again, they are holed up all day with demanding jobs. This getaway will take them away from the pressures of daily life and help them discover knacks in areas they least expect." Vats informs that their adventure trials come with a community approach. They tie up with locals to devise an atmosphere of support and belongingness. "At our last retreat in Himachal's Kalga, we went up to a village and distributed gifts among the children there. A session was held in the village school, too. We will be roping in locals for the drum circles in our upcoming artcation."

Apart from art gatherings by the beach and playing with paint and sand, there will be six days of kayaking, yoga, sound healing and meditation, hiking and nature walks. Manisha Sharma, co-founder of the project, oversees meditation slots. As an Art of Living teacher and Reiki grandmaster, Sharma brings her experience and wisdom to the team. Co-founder Shlok Gera, who comes from a music background, shares that the events at Project Aaina don't just restrict art to an easel. "We wanted to test and discover the power of collaboration. How teamwork helps people find themselves in a new light is totally stirring. Now, with sound meditation and movement-based drills, we have broadened the purview of our project."

From: January 5 to 10
At: Goa and Gokarna.
Log on to: @projectaaina on Instagram
Call: 9870617875