Written by Tanisha Cardozo
In the narrow lanes of Goa, amidst heritage homes and busy chai stalls, a sketchbook is quietly capturing the rhythm of life—page by page. Behind it is Vaibhav Salgaonkar, a self-taught illustrator, caricaturist, and urban sketcher, better known as Artbybu.
A Journey Beyond the Conventional
While many artists follow traditional art school paths, Vaibhav’s story begins in science labs. A graduate of St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, and a Master’s in Biotechnology from Goa University, he always had a pen in hand—even during lectures. Those early doodles soon became award-winning entries at art competitions.
His defining moment arrived with the Inktober challenge, where he committed to a month of daily sketching in black and white. The challenge sharpened his eye for detail and his unique caricature style, later evolving into his signature brand: Artbybu.
Sketching for a Cause
Vaibhav gained attention during the 2020 Mollem movement, when his illustrations became visual protest tools, raising awareness about Goa’s threatened forests. This phase marked a powerful shift from decorative to purposeful art.
From there, his illustrations began chronicling Goan life—its unique homes, daily scenes, and quiet stories. His art soon found a home in pop-up markets, gaining popularity among locals and tourists alike.
Urban Sketching and the Joy of Connection
Joining Urban Sketchers Goa in 2023 opened up new chapters. Vaibhav began sketching live in public spaces—cafés, bus stands, old verandas—capturing life as it unfolded. His urban sketches brim with intimacy: chaiwalas, fish markets, street dogs, and old Portuguese buildings.
He often gifts portraits to strangers he draws—a small act that turns passersby into smiling participants in his journey.
Creative Recharge and Projects Ahead
Though Vaibhav juggles freelance projects, he sees urban sketching as a creative reset. Currently, he’s working on a deeply personal zine on Goa’s iconic Oyster Shell Windows, blending architectural sketches with cultural commentary.
Looking ahead, he hopes to explore animation, mixed media, and eventually host a solo exhibition to celebrate Goa’s layered identity.
A Message to Aspiring Artists
“Start by putting your work out there—even if it’s imperfect. Don’t wait to be ‘ready.’ Rejections will happen—learn from them. Visit exhibitions. Connect. Collaborate. But above all—draw a lot. And keep your humor alive—it’s what makes your style truly yours.”
Through laughter, lines, and ink, Vaibhav Salgaonkar is building a vivid visual archive of Goa—one that celebrates its people, places, and everyday beauty with soul and sketch.
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