THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:As Shanghumugham art museum threw open its doors to the public, noted artist Sudhir Patwardhan was there in the city as the chief guest of the function. Known for his contribution to the art field, the artist was more than happy to grace the occasion.
He says, “It is a very important step taken by the Corporation. We are expecting curated shows by budding artists. What I saw here was an excellent show put up by the young artists of Kerala. The ideas are new and programmes like art workshops being conducted as part of the month-long fete are highly commendable.”
The artist said the museum can do well if regular art workshops are conducted. He also suggested that the museum should have a collection of important works.
A story-teller, radiologist and painter, Sudhir Patwardhan's works have always represented the concerns of the people, finding acceptance among a wide range of viewers- from critics to the laymen. The subject matter and style he follows have remained fairly consistent, moving between people, city and suburbs.
Patwardhan has been known as the chronicler of the city where he lived. He has been creating his works in his little studio where his subjects vary in strokes, colours and subjects. Talking about the space given to artists, he says, “Art was not considered as a prior thing earlier and to find a gallery was a struggle. The problem in India is that we do not have institutions to back artists. With the opening of Shanghumugham art museum, it will open up opportunities for young budding artists.”
During earlier times, the artists were not free enough to explore all the subjects as there were certain restrictions. Subjects such as violence in the society couldn't be represented by the artists in the form of paintings because of the norms associated with it.
“Nowadays we can do installations, art videos and we see that Kerala has a long-painting tradition”, says Patwardhan.
The art museum will be a stage to cultural programmes and other shows till July 31. The paintings and drawing exhibition 'Rebounds' has been curated by art critic Chandran T V, who handles art history course at Government Fine Arts College, Thiruvananthapuram.
The works of nine young artists are also being showcased. Other shows include 'Body' curated by art historian M L Johny and National Women Artists' show curated by artist Sajitha Shankar.