This sketch club is building an art community in Goa

• The Sketch Club in Porvorim brings together artists of all levels.

• It is founded by artists Manuela Gomes and Dikshant Kochrekar.

• It offers a relaxed, inclusive space with no formal instruction.

• The club fosters artistic growth through fortnightly sessions at XCHR.

In an art world often shaped by solitary practice and competitive showcases, a quiet but meaningful movement is taking root in Porvorim.

The Sketch Club, co-founded by artists Manuela Gomes and Dikshant Kochrekar, is building a vibrant, inclusive community where drawing becomes both a creative pursuit and a shared experience.

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Held every alternate Saturday in the serene gallery space of the Xavier Centre of Historical Research (XCHR), the Sketch Club is open to anyone, from seasoned professionals to curious beginners, interested in sketching.

There is no formal instruction, no rigid structure, but just an open studio format where participants sketch together in a relaxed, supportive environment.

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The idea sprouted from a simple need: to reconnect artists outside of exhibitions or online platforms. “Once you leave college, you rarely get the chance to just practice figure sketching in a group,” says Manuela, a muralist and alumnus of Goa College of Art.

Dikshant, a self-taught artist from Camurlim, echoes this sentiment. “You’d think artists would know each other, but most of us are working in isolation. Every artist becomes an island.”

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The sessions, usually attended by 10–12 participants, include short-timed figure sketching exercises, often with a live model. The focus is on quick studies like capturing movement, understanding anatomy, and refining proportion.

While some sketch quietly, others chat over tea or seek informal guidance. Dikshant, for instance, enjoys mentoring those new to drawing.

The sessions, usually attended by 10–12 participants, include short-timed figure sketching exercises, often with a live model.

“It’s not a class. It’s just a space to sketch and be around others who love doing the same,” says Manuela. The setting with soft music, occasional refreshments, and a spirit of camaraderie helps break the barriers that often surround art practice.

The club also runs on a contribution basis, with no fixed fee. Attendees are encouraged to pay what they can, usually Rs 100, which goes towards paying models and maintaining the space. The rest is driven purely by passion.

Manuela Gomes It’s not a class. It’s just a space to sketch and be around others who love doing the same

The long-term vision goes beyond just figure drawing. Plans are underway to eventually include painting sessions, exhibitions, and even collaborations with craft artists. For now, though, the goal is simple: to foster a creative space where people can draw, connect, and belong.

In Dikshant’s words, “Just seeing people sketch, people you never knew existed, and watching their art unfold in real, time that’s been the most rewarding part.”

Dikshant KochrekarJust seeing people sketch, people you never knew existed, and watching their art unfold in real, time that’s been the most rewarding part

DETAILS

WHAT: The Sketch Club

WHEN: July 26, 2025 (Fortnightly event)

WHERE: Xavier Centre of Historical Research, Porvorim

CONTACT: +91 9049899920/+91 8788185350

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Who can attend the Sketch Club sessions?

Anyone with an interest in sketching is welcome. There is no age or skill restriction.

Do I need to register in advance or pay a fee?

No prior registration is required. It’s a walk-in format between 4 pm to 7 pm. A voluntary contribution (usually Rs 100) is appreciated to support model fees and space usage.

What should I bring to a session?

Participants are encouraged to bring their own sketching materials.

Where and when do the sessions take place?

Sessions are held fortnightly on Saturdays at the Xavier Centre of Historical Research (XCHR), Porvorim.