CHENNAI: Culture, heritage, evolution of art conditioned by the passage of time and through interaction with peers and integrity — these are the features that one would witness at the South Indian Art show at the Lalit Kala Akademi, presented by the Chandra Ilango Art Foundation. The multifaceted exhibition, in its third edition, encompasses various genres such as painting, sculpture, drawing, print making, photography, digital art and installations, through figurative, narrative, abstract, experimental and conceptual artforms.
As one looks at these experimentative, yet contemporary works by young artists from South India, it becomes evident that they have brought forth immense potential and cultural aesthetics that artists from South India possess.
A V Ilango says, “There might have been many galleries in the city, but apart from art enthusiasts, most of the people do not know how to appreciate art . Without proper wisdom and vision, art won’t progress, thereby breaking the morale of artists and artistic expression.”
He adds that most galleries support established artists and exhibit their works, as people look forward to the works of selective artists. Hence, new and young artists find it hard to bring their works to the limelight and struggle for survival. The exhibition strives to showcase the works of people, whose works have the visual strength of expression.
The exhibition brings together the works of 104 artists aged between 18 and 35, that were shortlisted by a jury of established artists from the city. For artist Janarthanan, whose installation of iron titled ‘Nest’, is designed on a human body, signifying the body becoming a nesting place for spirit, soul and feelings, the medium that he uses each time depends how perfectly it matches his thought process.
Potrarasan creates his abstract sculptures using ceramic as a medium. One work with spirals entangling sparrows and other birds synonymously shows how crammed city life is and how nature is left with no choice but to adapt with the changing lifestyles in the city.
The gallery space was efficiently used at the showcase, as artistic works filled each and every corner. Ten artists received Jury Awards and three received Foundation Awards.
The exhibition is on at the Lalit Kala Akademi, Greams Road, till May 10.