As I walked up to the exhibition in Balgandharva Kala Dalan, the ceramic creation of Ms Nirmala Sharma grasped my attention. Her ceramics were placed centrally in the hall. It’s a general observation that ceramics is an art whose practitioners have become peculiarly suited to silence. And we talked and found out that the subtle and restrained forms that Nirmala constructs are provocative and practical-based rather than idea – based. It’s a fusion between the Asian heritage of ceramic artists and their expression of contemporary times. Of the subtle earth tones on Nirmala’s quiet forms, the teaset demands attention with lively shades of blue and its exuberant practicality.
The artworks were hung on the surrounding walls with not so very good lighting.
Deepak Sonar’s landscapes are wide and filled with myriad shades and tones. For me, the frame had cut the view. This kind of perception has become ingrained in my visual and essentially mental assimilation of landscapes. But Sonar accomplishes the goal of absorbing people with what goes between the frames. He is able to prolong the enjoyment, and increases its value. A visual delight.
Dilip Chitre is a Poet, Writer, Art Critic and the founder member of Friends of Visual Arts. His contours and formations are gripping and more chaotic, moving pieces rules the flow of the paintings. Jayant Joshi is smooth and urbane. The structures, forms, use of strokes and colours are contemporary. Figurative remnants in the form of still life and animated suburban scenes are catchy and very POP.
Konstantina Daskalaki’s all works sold out by the time I reached the exhibition. The constant level of details across her artworks is her niche. It captures a variety of tones along the geometry of the structure and every detail has been used with same intensity. Konstantina is an uplifting experience.
Manohar Singh Advani and his restrained, calculated use of forms are another attraction. It is a junction between inner and outer sensibilities in unique creation and sophistication. The signature of Sandeep Sonawane is of joy and fulfillment. The vibes of positivity are loud in his paintings. He is able to use the minimal figurative elements blend with inner sensibilities, with colors that soothes the eye and the weary soul.
October 14, 2008
