You never know where or when you find an inspiration that changes your life. And it becomes even more significant when the inspiration leads to preservation of a historical treasure which is dying a slow death. For 76 year old Vsavamba Satyanarayana, the inspiration came when she was 50, after meeting her friend’s daughter.
Today, she is an expert in the art of making Tanjore paintings. “It was very satisfying when I learnt the art of making a Tanjore painting. I know it is a dying art form, but I also know how much people appreciate it. So I have made it my mission to teach it to as many people as I possibly can,” says Vsavamba.
Following her mentor, Diwangath Doraiswamy, a National Awardee, under whom she completed a course on making the painting, today she has taught hundreds of passionate artists. So curious was she in her pursuit to master the art that she even learnt the intricacies of Mysore paintings for 18 months at Bangalore’s renowned Chitrakala Parishath.
And her teachings have spread across boundaries. “Initially, I used to teach in a temple near my house. I have also taught at a friend’s place and wherever people requested me to come. I have taught in Andhra Pradesh and even in the US, where my daughter lives and works. I never get tired of doing what I love. Today, I have two rooms in my house just dedicated to my work and materials and I have only my family to thank for it.”
Several exhibitions have been held showcasing her work, the last one was held on July 7 in the city.
People who learn from her don't have to spend a fortune, as she only charges them for the material. Also, 25 percent of what she earns is donated to a trust.
And is it hard, managing a household while trying to preserve an art form as well?
“Not at all. My family has always been supportive of what I do and that means a lot to any artist. I feel that if you just go ahead with what you believe in, with faith and devotion, things will work out,” she said.