KOCHI:A magnificent photograph of the sculpture ‘Yakshi’, considered the magnum opus of master sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman invites you in. A series of pictures encompassing the life and journey of the artist has been stringed together, creating a visual installation of sorts of the artist’s life. Embark on a visual journey to know the artist and the craft behind his sculptures at a one-of-a-kind photography exhibition organised at the Kanakakunnu Palace. A vibrant collection of photographs capturing the poignant moments in the life of the artist has been exhibited. The exhibition has been curated into three categories.
While some delve into the artist’s personal life, some focus on his sculptures while some give a peek into the world of sculpting. Among the exhibits include the many sculptures crafted by the artist such as the ‘Sagara Kanyaka’ of Sankumugham, ‘Mukkola Perumal’ of Ernakulam, the Amma sculpture of Payyambalam, and the ‘Akshara Shilpam’ of Kottayam among others.
The pictures captured by photojournalist Jithesh Damodar have been exhibited. The pictures have been taken over a period of fifteen years, when the photographer travelled along with the artist, thereby crafting a visual story of the artist’s life and work. The exhibition was organised on the sidelines of the series of programmes charted out to honour the sculptor who is turning 80 this year. The year also marks the 50th anniversary of the sculpture ‘Yakshi’. A bevvy of programmes to celebrate the artist and his works started off here at Kanakakunnu grounds on Monday. Culture Minister A K Balan inaugurated the three-day event which was launched to celebrate the artist. Noted filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan inaugurated the photo exhibition.
The photographs capturing the spirit and zeal of the artist also throw open the door to the art of sculpture making. The gentle side of the much-loved artist is reflected in a picture where he is seen petting a cow. The exhibition will come to a close on Wednesday. It will be open from 10 am to 10 pm.