A Lesson in Copper

It must be pretty cool to have a family business that’s known throughout the continent, especially one that’s not related to food – those tend to gain popularity as the generations go by.

What I loved about Albert Gilles Copper Art is that it’s a quaint little structure by the countryside in Chateau Richer, Quebec. By looking at it on the outside, one would never guess that this was the place where master craftsman Albert Gilles made magic with copper.

While the incredible artist, Albert Gilles is no longer alive, his daughters keep the 87 year old copper smith tradition flourishing. Apparently, they are the last crafters of their kind, so I’m really glad I could go and appreciate the art. The method they use is Copper Repousse - pressing shapes into the reverse side of soft copper using wooden tools.

From tiny pendants to the gigantic doors of the Basilica Sainte-Anne church doors you see in the picture, the time and detailing required during this painstaking process is incredible. In fact, Albert took over 15 years to create 50 large silver panels telling the story of the Life of Christ.

Although I love marveling at art, I’m not the artistic type. My grandmother did all art and craft related projects I was assigned in school... I hope no ex-teachers are reading this.

Here are three attempt at Copper Repousse - my cousins, my brothers and mine.

I'm not telling you which one is mine! (hint - it's the best one!)

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Painting up a Storm

If you’re a Mumbaikar, there are high chances that you’ve heard or said the words “There’s nothing to do in Mumbai.”

I feel your pain…

Whether you’re an overworked employee, a home-maker who just needs a break, or just someone who likes meeting new people, there’s a new trend in town that I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did.

Introducing Paintstorm – a concept started by Prerna & Viren Chhabria and twins, Sanjana Bubber & Aanchal Bubber Mehta, to give Mumbaikars a great art escape. What began as an idea in February 2015, quickly turned to reality as they realized that creative recreation for adults is virtually non-existent.

But hey, it’s not just another painting workshop, Paintstorm hosts it’s events in popular pubs and restaurants in Mumbai, thus blending some great pastimes, eating, drinking and painting, along with the opportunity of meeting new people. Having left the paint and brushes aside in maybe the 8^th grade, I happened to attend one such event at Le Pain Quotidien, Colaba a few days ago. 

The Paintstorm Team make sure to set a fun, low-stress, non-judgmental environment as they guide you stroke by stroke on creating a masterpiece all on your own.  With unique themes at every event, one doesn’t have to stare at blank canvas wondering what to paint, you can choose to follow the guide and replicate her painting, or simply go nuts and do your own.

I chose the second option.

The event costs around 2400/- with food and drinks additional. It would have been great if a complimentary cocktail/mocktail would have been included in the cost. But if you book a slot at one of the upcoming events, there are chances you may get the promotional discount that’s running. 

Here are the details and booking link for their next event.

Next time you have the boredom blues, skip the mall and the spas. Go on and relive those art classes in school while you chat with new people @Paintstorm.in

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