It’s a kaleidoscope of colours and forms as you step into the Nanappa Art Gallery on Karikkamuri Cross Road. Images in acrylic, water colour, oil, charcoal, ink, pen and a C-D marker - throw light on the different aspects of life at the exhibition by Panthirukulam.
The grand old buildings of Mattanchery and Chinese fishing nets lining the Fort Kochi beach at twilight are realistic and cast a spell on the viewers. As if taking us beyond the rollers of the sea the ‘Murals of the Universe’ goes into the profound philosophies of existence. The Life Cycle of Buddha brings to mind scenes from ‘Chandalabhikshuki’ by Kumaranasan.
A work of Panchaganapathi, a rare portrayal of Lord Ganesha playing the flute, with the rat listening ardently is juxtaposed with the painting of Lord Krishna in bright colours playing a flute which attracts the cows to him. Layered with meaning the pieces depict the fantasies and illusions in life.
Realism, semi-realism, pure fantasy and the murals - different styles converge at the exhibition where 24 paintings of 12 artists are displayed.
Landscapes also catch one’s attention. The rays of the sun through the woods, the varied emotions of an infant in the work, ‘Sleeping Baby’, a women relaxing in ‘Rest’ are thought-provoking. So are the social issues brought out through the depiction of the woes of the downtrodden.
Formed in 2010, Panthirukulam comprises a group of 12 people from across the state who have a passion for art - T N Subodh Kumar, James P J, A A Ajithkumar, Balakrishnan Kadirur, Rajan Kadalundi, Seemon Joseph, T N Raju, Sunil Moothedath, Shyju R, Sasi K Warier, Joby Ravindran and Manoj Mathasseril. Among them are a professor, Customs superintendent, graphic designer, cartoonist and a web designer.
“All of us are in some way associated with the Indian School of Art which is organising the show in association with Orthic Creative Centre. Our friendship at the institute led to the formation of Panthirukulam, a group to share ideas, working styles and interests,” said Sasi K Warier, Principal of the Institute and a member of Panthirukulam.
“This is our ninth exhibition. Our earlier shows were theme-based. But this show allows each one to exploit his own ideas and give expressions freely,” said Manoj Mathasseril. Working in a group helps artists a lot. We get a chance to become acquainted with different style, appreciate and criticise the works, and further improve their own talents, said T Kaladharan of the Nanappa Art Gallery. “Though the artists have developed their individual styles, working in a group has helped them develop a chemistry that augments their work,” he said.
The exhibition is on till October 12.