Mirrors in the Mind,” a fascinating compilation of Shailesh B O’s latest work, is currently on display at the Art Houz in Alwarpet. The exhibit includes a series of glitter paintings, watercolors and several sculptures. “Here, in Shailesh’s pictures you will find everything -vigour, story, tenderness and beauty,” says Ernst Koelnsperger, an art collector from Germany.
The fractal series, which encompasses all the glitter paintings, skillfully depicts still individuals in seemingly fluid motion. In one piece titled “Verdant,” red coloured figures appear to swing through the air. He creates a “sequential visual record of flowing movement capturing transitions in posture and momentum over time,” writes art critic Lina Vincent Sunish. His art, Shailesh says, is “connected to keen observations of the city.” Therefore, he chooses materials that are common in daily life. “For these glitter paintings, I use the same powder that is used in bangles and clips,” he says. Shailesh appreciates glitter because, “as light passes, it crosses diagonally and shows something new whenever you change your position.” Shailesh’s piece ‘Touch me not’ brings to life the private sketches of this Chennai based artist. His sketch book full of ideas and seemingly secret drawings is placed inside a clear case just out of reach, leaving the viewer with overwhelming curiosity. “It is my everyday book,” Shailesh explains. “If the paper is spoiled, it is gone.” With the help of technology, everyone has full access to the work which fills the pages. Each drawing has been carefully photographed with high resolution and with the click of a computer mouse, viewers can flip the pages on a screen and immerse themselves in his memories and the experience of the artist himself.
“Every medium has its own sensitivity,” the artist explains. He uses a sketch to show the reality of form, but the drawing is then just the simple beginning of what the art becomes. Don’t miss this visual journey created by Shailesh, on display through November 30.