"It has always been my belief that art belongs to everyone. There is a misconception that art belongs to the elite, that it belongs in the realm of talent and genius, money and power or (unfortunately) in the realm of madness,” stated Singapore based art teacher and commissioned artist Xenia Bapasola. She is currently preparing for the group exhibition "Art for a Cause” that will be held at Furama Riverfront Hotel in Singapore from August 7 to 9, 2024 when besides exhibiting some of her art, she will be doing live painting demonstrations.
"We are a recently formed group of artists in Singapore who pledge a part of our earnings to non-profits and charitable ventures. We strive to use our artistry to drive change within our communities,” she mentioned when responding to queries from Parsiana.
The lead educator at Our Art Studio in Singapore where she teaches people of all ages, to her, "art should be welcoming, approachable, and warm like an old friend or sunlight. It is for everyone to look at, to find peace in, to play with, to make, and to enjoy in any ways they wish to.” Believing it is vital for both intrapersonal and sociocultural development, she employs art as a medium to unite individuals with their internal world, thus allowing them to better understand themselves and those around them. After a day spent in teaching students, she is happy to unleash her own creativity whether for friends and family, or for commissions and exhibitions. During and post the pandemic, Bapasola has teamed up with promoters like Essential Arts, Zee Arts Gallery, Mah Collective and artists like Christine Soh.
Above: canvas painting Little Joy by Xenia Bapasola (top, r)
Living in Singapore for the last 12 years, Bombay born Bapasola mentioned that after completing her ISC (Indian School Certificate) studies from Cathedral and John Connon School she moved to Singapore when she was 18 years old to pursue her Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art from Lasalle College of the Arts. "I can’t remember a time without art. My parents Aban and Jamshed ensured we were always surrounded by art be it music, painting or craft since we were very young,” recalled Xenia, the youngest of three sisters with Dilnaz currently practicing as a real estate/corporate lawyer, and Ayesha as an environmental consultant. Brought up with "the values of Ahura Mazda,” Xenia who describes herself as a liberal Zoroastrian observes, "Although I may be divorced from the rituals, at the core of my actions, intentions and paintings are good thoughts, good words and good deeds...
"I hope to learn and grow further so that as an artist I can give back to the communities that have supported me and in turn support others,” declared Xenia, appreciating the encouragement she has received from her "family, teachers at school and college, the people I work with, friends and strangers at exhibitions who offer a kind word or simply a smile. This systemic kindness I have found… is what I intend to contribute to.”