KALA: A Vibrant Celebration of South Asian Art in Milton

Milton, a burgeoning town, has witnessed a remarkable surge in its South Asian population, prompting its transition from a small town to a significant hub that may even warrant a name change. Immigrant families from countries such as India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh have chosen this land as their new home, each seeking to rebuild their lives, titles, and social standing. The journey is arduous, as it entails leaving behind loved ones, professions that bring financial stability, and a social status. However, Canada's allure beckons thousands of immigrants to cross vast oceans and embark on a new chapter in their lives, brimming with opportunities.

The community support in Milton is truly extraordinary, surpassing all expectations. It is a community that consistently goes the extra mile to assist and uplift others. Reflecting this spirit of solidarity, SAMM, led by Diksha Pal Narayan, organized a remarkable event specifically designed to showcase the talents of women to the entire town.

To celebrate the South Asian Heritage Month, a recent event organized by the "South Asian Mommies of Milton" group, titled "Kala," showcased and celebrated the artistic talents of South Asian artists within the community. Held at the Milton Center for the Arts, the exhibition featured a captivating display of ethnic Indian art, with 6 eshtablished artists and 28 Hobby artists from South Asia participating. The intricate paintings depicted the essence of ethnicity, vibrant culture, and captivating beauty, leaving everyone in awe.

The "KALA: Colors of South Asia Art Exhibit" commenced on May 16th at the First Ontario Arts Centre Milton and will run until June 3rd, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds.

SAMM, established by Diksha Pal Narayan, serves as a space for mothers within the community to come together and discuss the opportunities, challenges, and struggles they encounter. Experience a historic moment as Milton hosts its first-ever South Asian Heritage Month celebration and a one-of-a-kind art show exclusively curated for and by the South Asian community.

Experience a historic moment as Milton hosts its first-ever South Asian Heritage Month celebration and a one-of-a-kind art show exclusively curated for and by the South Asian community. This event serves as a platform for both hobby artists and seasoned talents to showcase their skills and creativity. Join us in witnessing a remarkable blend of emerging and established artists as they come together to create an unforgettable art exhibition. Don't miss this unique opportunity to be a part of Milton's vibrant South Asian art scene. The event is free for all.

Photo Coutesy: Sameera Ali and Jyoti Mehta

The event was welcomed and appreciated by the Regional councillor, Sameera Ali, ex Milton Ward 3 Councillor, Rick Di Lorenzo, and MPP Milton Parm Gill who stated, "I would like to thank the South Asian Mommies of Milton (SAMM) for the countless contribution they make to bettering our community. This is the first-ever Kala art exhibition in Milton and it is such a great way to celebrate the South Asian heritage Month. With the partnership of SAMM, Arts Milton and First Ontario Center, this art exhibition gives an opportunity to the South Asian emerging artists to showcase their creativity. I look forward to seeing the creative art pieces these artists have created."

The established artists featured in the list are: Aparna Rangknekar, David Anthony, Lakshmi Ventakaraman, Nargis Naqvi, Poonam Sharma, and Zunaira Mufti.

In addition, there are 28 emerging artists from the Milton community. Here's the list: Aakansha Bhalerao, Arifa Hararwala, Bhanumathi Deepan, Dhara Parikh, Farrah Merza, Jyoti Priya Nayak, Krittika Verma, Lipika Brahma, Miriam Thomson, Neena Jyoti, Nidhi Jog, Prachi Deodhar, Punita Nanda, Purvi Bhatt, Raksha Nukal, Rajeshwari Sahoo, Rose Johnson, Sameer Choksi, Sara Aziz, Sehba Faruqui, Shruthi Bylhalli, Shruthi Padmnabhan, Shweni Dinorkar Parmar, Sudharvizhi Mathiazhagan, Swathi Umesh, Vaishali More, and Vatsal Patel.

Congratulations to the SAMM group, Diksha Pal Narayan, and all the participants who took part in this unique art showcase in Milton.