Growing up in a Bengali household in the 1990s, aanka shekha or drawing lessons were a quintessential rite of passage. But Gargi Sen Gupta, a Chennai-based change consultant, never quite derived any joy from the mundane lessons. Her surprise was rather justified then when she found herself picking up rocks from a stream with fifteen other strangers to create a collective artwork on a large canvas.
Today, when she looks back at the art-based retreat organised by Project Aaina in the idyllic hill station of Coorg, she realises that it was no ordinary vacation. "When we picked up those paintbrushes, we were not just painting, but rather, articulating what was going through our heads. Far removed from the gimmicks of over-crowded touristy spots, an art retreat like that truly cleanses the mind, body and soul," she says.
Sen Gupta's words are evocative of a larger legion of travellers seeking something more substantial from their holiday itinerary than a postcard-perfect snapshot for the 'gram. It comes as little surprise then that art-based tourism is emerging as one of the most prominent travel trends for the year. But rather than consuming art passively at a gallery, a new wave of art-themed retreats are aiming to encourage people to reconnect with their inner selves and elevate the conventional sun-and-sand itinerary into a transformative vehicle for catharsis.
Aloha, Art-cations
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة February 2024 من Elle India.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة February 2024 من Elle India.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
Hijabi Hair, Don't Care
TLC for the mane, especially when it isn't visible to the world, transmutes it into an act of self-love for Hasina Jeelani
THE MANE ATTRACTION
When it comes to hair care, compromise simply isn't an option. With iluvia's expertly curated systems, you can cleanse, revive, and protect your hair without missing a beat. Let your locks thrive, from root to tip, with science-backed, innovative haircare ranges crafted for lasting shine, strength, and elegance.
ELLE Beauty Hall of Fame
Celebrating standout beauty products in every category, all earning ELLE's seal of approval through expert, editorial and public votes
FULL THROTTLE
F2 rising star Kush Maini on his racing journey & challenges in motorsport. Ekta Sinha hitches a ride
VIJAY VARMA MAN OF THE MOMENT
Amidst the barrage of releases, Vijay Varma's dignified reticence is enveloped in thoughtful consideration, reports Ipsita Kaul
ROHIT SARAF THE GEN Z STAR
The new generation heartthrob talks about his love for romcoms, music, and future endeavours with Ekta Sinha
Roaring RAJASTHAN
From Jawai's dramatic landscape and Jaisalmer's rich heritage to Ranthambore's enthralling wilderness-Isha Mayer explores SUJÁN's luxurious, eco-conscious hospitality offerings in the beautiful state
Ectoin: The Skin's New Defence
Krishika Bhatia explores a revolutionary skincare breakthrough that merges nature and science, featuring insights from industry experts
Nigella's WORLD
The British celebrity chef shares the secret recipe to her effortless charm in the kitchen with Isha Mayer
ADRIATIC DRIFT
Stari Grad is Croatia's hidden gem waiting to be explored, finds Isha Mayer