As part of this year’s highly anticipated Decennial Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics, the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman will unveil an art exhibition on November 17, 2024, titled Footprints of Hope at the historic Convent of St. John of God, Old Goa. This exhibition, set against the backdrop of Goa’s rich cultural heritage, brings together 62 artists from various faiths, each contributing artwork that captures the timeless legacy of Saint Francis Xavier, Goa’s beloved. The exhibition will be inaugurated by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, who will highlight the Saint’s enduring influence on Goan identity and culture. The Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, Rev. Simiao Purificacao Fernandes, Fr. Henry Falcão the Convenor of the Exposition Committee, Curators along with the Contributing Artists will also be present for the inaugural.
An artistic journey through Goa’s spiritual heritage
Curated with an emphasis on contemporary relevance, the exhibition invites viewers on a reflective journey through diverse paintings. Renowned artists such as Alvito D’Costa, Alexyz, Angela Ferrao, Bianca Menezes, Bismarck Dias, Clarice Vaz, Chandan Crasta, Cornelia Sequeira, Dr. Razia Pires, Evita Pereira e Silva, Fernanda de Melo, Francis De Sousa, Fr. Ankith D’Souza, Fr. Lodovico Godinho, Govind Silimkhan, Ignatius Menezes, Justino Lobo, Julio D’Souza, Late Joao Fernandes, Julian Mascarenhas, Julias Rocha, Kalidas Satardekar, Leticia Alvares, Liesl Cotta De Souza, Lilia Rodrigues e Louis, Livien Mendes, Loretti Pinto, Malcolm Rebello, Manjunaath Naik, Manuela Alvares, Manuela Gomes, Marcio Fernandes, Mark D’Souza, Melanie Da Costa Pereira, Michael Rodrigues, Mohan Naik, Mohit Naik, Nadia De Souza, Natasha Andrade, Nirupa Naik, Osborn Carvalho, Presley D’Costa, Querozito De Souza, Raj Fernandes, Rohan Pai Dhungat, Roopa Fernandes, Rudi D’Silva, Ryan Abreu, Sagar Naik Mule, Salvador Fernandes, Sanjay Harmalkar, Sandesh Naik, Shailesh Dabholkar, Sonia Rodrigues Sabharwal, Swapnesh Vaigankar, Tamara Borges, Theresa Carvalho, Vasudev Shetye, Verodina Ferrao De Sousa, Viraj Naik, Walter De Souza, and Yolanda Kammermeier have brought the theme to life, utilising symbols and motifs tied to the life and mission of Saint Francis Xavier. Some works depict him holding a Crucifix, symbolising his commitment to spreading the Gospel. In contrast, others portray him with a flaming heart and lily, representing his love for God and dedication to purity.
A sacred gathering amid the Exposition
With the Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics drawing millions to Old Goa from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, Footprints of Hope serves as a unique cultural addition. The art exhibition is expected to attract pilgrims, tourists, and art enthusiasts alike, providing a reflective space amid the bustling Exposition. This year’s exhibition venue, the recently restored Convent of St. John of God, beautifully blends seventeenth-century architecture with contemporary works that resonate with today’s visitors.
Art as a bridge between generations: Celebrating diversity and resilience
For many attendees, the exhibit offers more than just visual art; it serves as a shared cultural memory that keeps Goa’s heritage alive. Curator, Fr. Délio Mendonça noted that the collaborative effort behind Footprints of Hope has been monumental. "This exhibition could inspire viewers to fortify respect for the religious and cultural diversity that marks Indian civilization," he stated. By showcasing Goa’s diverse artistic talent, the exhibit echoes the values championed by Saint Francis Xavier — compassion, unity, and service. For Goans, Xavier’s legacy is intertwined with the region’s history, and this exhibit serves as both a testament to and a preservation of that legacy.
In an age of global challenges, Footprints of Hope resonates deeply. As Goa continues to welcome visitors from around the world, the exhibition will highlight a legacy that remains relevant today - one that calls for mutual respect, environmental care, and a collective effort to uplift one another. The exhibition will run parallel to the Exposition and stand as a reminder of St. Francis Xavier’s legacy in promoting human dignity and peace.
