Paint your version of home in Van Gogh's trademark style at this contest in Mumbai

A painting by Pratigya Berwal

Vincent Van Gogh's The Starry Night is one of the most recognisable artworks across the globe, along with his brushwork and impasto style of painting. Posthumously, the artist's influence has reached far and across genres, from music and fashion to pop culture. Art Lounge, a premium art store at Kala Ghoda, is hosting a session called Postcards from Home: Van Gogh style contest, inviting people to paint their versions of home in the artist's trademark style.

Pratigya Berwal demonstrates the impasto technique

The competition was conceptualised in preparation for Van Gogh 360°, an immersive exhibition of the artist's famous works. The show has been touring the world and is finally coming to Indian cities, starting with Mumbai later this month. Partner and creative director of Art Lounge, Anika Goenka, shares that after hearing much about the touring exhibition from peers within the global artist community, the wait finally comes to an end.

Those looking to participate in the contest can submit artworks in any traditional medium - fabric painting, collage, and all types of paint including gouache, watercolour, oil, acrylic, pastels, inks and markers that one can use to achieve the colours and movement that are a key element in Van Gogh's works. The artwork does not have to be postcard-size but can vary from A5 to A2 to not limit the detailing of the technique. Participants can recreate what ‘home' means to them through brushstrokes - whether that's a city skyline, an object, or a memory. Anyone who is 12 years or above can take the plunge. The contest deadline also allows people to catch the exhibition to get inspired before sending in their entries. "It will be interesting to see the varying depictions of the subject," Goenka admits.

Anika Goenka

Judges Goenka and resident artist Pratigya Berwal will focus on proximity to Van Gogh's style, translation of the city, town, village, area or home, composition, technique and use of colours. The top 10 entries will be showcased on the store's social media and blog, and three winners will receive store vouchers worth R3,500, R2,500 and Rs 1,500 for first, second and third places respectively. Get inspired and Van Gogh away.

Entries Open: Till January 31
Registration: Post your artwork on Instagram or Facebook with #GoghWithArtLounge or email pratigya.berwal@artlounge.in
Log on to: artlounge.in

Impasto tips

>> Use contrasting colours or cool and warm tones like purple/green or blue/yellow that are on the opposite sides of the colour wheel, suggests Goenka.
>> Movement is an important element in Van Gogh's work. Short strokes are perfect for depicting movement and long brushstrokes for flat areas.