The Sarasota International Chalk Festival has always been known for its stunning street art, but the festival has grown far beyond just chalk. What started 17 years ago with simple chalk drawings on the streets has blossomed into a global celebration of ephemeral art. One of the oldest traditions that the festival honors is the Italian art of Madonnari, where artists use chalk, coal, and clay tiles to create images of the Madonna. This 300-year-old tradition, with its roots in Italy’s Roman Catholic Church, focuses on creating beautiful, temporary art meant to be enjoyed in the moment and then disappear, returning to the earth. This year, the festival is excited to fly in nine winners from the world’s most prestigious Madonnari contest.
But Madonnari isn’t the only ephemeral art with deep cultural roots. **Rangoli**, another ancient art form, also falls under the category of ephemeral art. Similar to Madonnari in spirit, Rangoli uses colored powders to create intricate designs on the ground. Traditionally practiced in India, Rangoli has been used for thousands of years to welcome guests and deities during festivals and auspicious events.
This year, Sarasota is honored to welcome a world-renowned Rangoli team from Pune, India, led by Bhagyashree Deshpande and Mahendra (Mahi) Metkari. And in the spirit of community and cultural exchange, local Sarasota businesswoman Dr. Sharon Juraszek, founder of Fermentlicious, has stepped up to serve as their ambassador. Sharon, a Doctor of Ayurvedic Medicine, not only shares a deep connection to Indian culture through her holistic health practices but is also passionate about showcasing the best Sarasota has to offer to Bhagyashree and Mahi.
Sharon’s connection to Rangoli art runs deeper than just an interest in cultural exchange. As someone who embraces wellness and Ayurveda, she finds a shared philosophy in the spiritual and community aspects of Rangoli. Both Rangoli and Ayurvedic traditions focus on creating harmony and positive energy, whether through art or health practices. Sharon’s business, Fermentlicious, which specializes in organic, health-focused sauerkraut, reflects this same dedication to well-being. She plans to ensure that Bhagyashree and Mahi not only feel welcomed but also enjoy a healthy and mindful experience while in Sarasota, helping them connect through shared values.
About Bhagyashree and Mahi: A Passion for Rangoli
Bhagyashree Deshpande has been creating Rangoli art since her school days, and her talent has earned her three world records. She has organized several Rangoli exhibitions across India and continues to push the boundaries of this traditional art form. For Mahendra (Mahi) Metkari, the journey began in his small hometown of Pandharpur, where he grew up watching his mother create Rangoli designs every morning outside their home. Inspired by these daily acts of creativity, Mahi developed a deep love for the art, which he now shares with the world. Together, Bhagyashree and Mahi have created a dynamic partnership, bringing their unique visions to Rangoli art, which they now bring to Sarasota.
Rangoli, also known as Kolam, Alpana, or Muggu depending on the region in India, holds great cultural and spiritual significance. It is a traditional Indian art form, typically created on the ground using colored powders, rice, or flower petals. The designs, which often feature geometric shapes, flowers, and depictions of deities, serve as a way to welcome guests and celebrate festivals. Rangoli is a symbol of auspiciousness, bringing positive energy and prosperity to homes and communities. Much like the Madonnari art of Italy, Rangoli is an art form that celebrates the fleeting beauty of life—meant to be admired in the moment and then return to the earth.
A Shared Journey of Wellness and Art
For Sharon, Bhagyashree, and Mahi, this cultural exchange is more than just a meeting of artistic minds—it is a celebration of shared values. Sharon’s work as a Doctor of Ayurvedic Medicine, with her focus on gut health and holistic living, ties naturally to the spiritual well-being that Rangoli represents in Indian culture. As she welcomes Bhagyashree and Mahi to Sarasota, she is not only offering her hospitality but also her deep respect for their cultural heritage and their shared love for healthy, intentional living.
Sharon’s passion for health, wellness, and cultural exchange makes her the perfect ambassador for this dynamic couple from India. She has already connected with Bhagyashree and Mahi on multiple levels, from their shared appreciation for Ayurvedic philosophy to their dedication to creating beauty and positivity in their communities.
As the Sarasota International Chalk Festival draws near, the collaboration between this young Sarasota businesswoman and these Rangoli artists from India serves as a beautiful example of how art can bridge cultures, inspire connections, and enrich our communities. With Sharon as their guide, Bhagyashree and Mahi will experience the warmth and hospitality that Sarasota is known for while sharing their own rich cultural traditions through the stunning art of Rangoli.
We are excited to see the magic they will create together and to witness the lasting impact of this cross-cultural exchange on Sarasota and beyond.