Mangaluru: The coast’s artistic traditions took flight in France as unique artworks by three artists from here were presented at the Dieppe International Kite Festival, being held from Sept 13 to 21.It was a special moment for artist Roopa Vasundara Acharya when her dry leaf creation, ‘Rooster’, was permanently placed in the Mayor’s Hall of Dieppe. She said that the artwork was made entirely from discarded natural materials, including dry leaves, seeds, and flowers, all sourced from her own garden and dried naturally.Vasundara, who hails from Padubidri, has been an artist for many years, working with paintings and other medium. However, for the past decade, she focused on research and experimentation with leaves, flowers, seeds, and twigs, driven by her interest in sustainability. She previously had the opportunity to meet President Droupadi Murmu and exhibit her works at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Her art was also displayed at Mangaluru International Airport. Besides leaf art, she specialises in fresh flower garlands and has won several awards. She said people have now begun to deeply appreciate her sustainable creations.The artworks were received by mayor Nicolas Langlois and Sebastien Jumel. Adding to the cultural exchange, Pranesh Kudroli, a member of Team Mangaluru and an expert in making Goodudeepas (traditional festive lanterns), gifted a specially designed folding Goodudeepa. Meanwhile, artist and environmentalist Dinesh Holla, whose artworks have been widely appreciated at the international kite fest over the years, also handed over an artwork. Team Mangalore, a hobby group of kite flyers led by Sarvesh Rao from Mangaluru, is currently participating in the kite festival with their chariot-shaped kite known as ‘Kudla Ratha’ and another highlighting the importance of water conservation titled ‘Water is Life’, continuing their tradition of blending Indian heritage with environmental messages on a global stage.The chariot-themed kite is 18ft tall and 10ft wide. The artistic design of the kite was created by artist Dinesh Holla, with Pranesh Kudroli, Satish Rao, and Arun contributing to the construction. The kite is being stitched by Sarvesh Rao.
