Goa’s world famous artist, illustrator and cartoonist, Mario Miranda who passed away on 11th December 2011 at his ancestral home in, Loutolim, Salcete, Goa, would have completed 90 years of age today (2nd May 2016). To mark this special anniversary, Goa, Goans and even Google are putting their best foot forward to do justice to his rich legacy.
Free musical concert
Mario was an avid lover of music and his good friends have put together a concert, featuring his favourite musicians. This include the likes of the Cotta family and Sonia Shirsat, along with her talented group. The concert is taking place at the Amphitheatre, Museum Houses of Goa, Torda, Porvorim and will kick off at 7.30pm, tonight.
Release of the Life of Mario: 1949
Previously, Mario Miranda’s two diaries which include sketches from 1951 and 1950, have been released as books. Now on his 90th birthday, eminent Goan architect, Gerard DaCunha who has collaborated with Mario Miranda in the past, is releasing the 1949 edition of his diary.
“Mario had a gift of finding humour in any situation. He drew like an angel and was many artists rolled into one,” remarked DaCunha, speaking exclusively to ItsGoa.
Fans of Mario Miranda’s work will surely grab a copy of the new book, along with people interested in finding out essential facets of Goa during the Portuguese era. Through his art, Mario depicts the social issues of the village, which includes attending dances and elections.
So what is so special about the 1949 book compared to the 1950 and 1951 releases?
“Mario’s craft was built after drawing daily for nearly 15 years, thanks to his mothers influence. 1949 was the year that the creative volcano erupted. He worked very hard for this.” explained DaCunha.
Google brings out doodle
In honour of Mario Miranda, Google has brought out a special doodle on its home page. This recognition by the search engine giant truly shows the sheer magnitude in which Mario touched the lives of people with his amazing talent. Google’s guest doodler, Aaron Renier is responsible for designing the doodle to capture the essence of Mario’s style.
“I approached Mario’s work by pretending I was drawing with him. I chose his most popular style, very flat with criss-crossing interactions. That is what I liked most about his work. Trying to pick out who knows who, who’s watching who, who’s annoyed by who, who’s enamored by who. Hopefully people will see something of [Miranda’s] spirit in it,” stated Aaron.
Whether you decide to celebrate Mario’s 90th birth anniversary by attending the music concert, laying your hands on the latest book release, or by simply going online to google the doodle, there is no question that the stage has been set for a beautiful celebration. Are you ready?
