Reflections of the soul

Updated on: Monday, December 14, 2009

Four artists from the city had exhibited their creations last week at the Academy of Fine Arts and Literature. Though each artist was visibly different from the other this group was similar in their belief that artists can hone their skills regardless of formal training. “Art is a window to the soul and a work of art provides an untampered insight into the artist’s inner world and his/her beliefs and convictions,” says Kaveri Arora, one of the four artists.

Echoing similar sentiments, Divya Chandra says, “An artist should have a phenomenal capacity to feel. In my case my family has been my greatest inspiration. Many of my paintings depict universal themes like birth, life and reincarnation. But since my comprehension of these things are incomplete without some association or reference to my family members, more specifically my son and husband, my paintings invariably feature them as the central character around which the theme revolves.”

Archana Lalit, another artist in this group of four recounts her experience, “I have a penchant for pastel shades and floral themes and many of my paintings find inspiration from the human figure. Not too long ago I suffered a spate of spinal injuries that had physically indisposed me. This was a time when I was in a quiet and self reflective mood. Flowers, nature and sunshine were my comfort factors. Eventually these got reflected in my work. For one, I realised that I preferred and employed earth tones wherever possible.”

Sharing her account, Vandana Mishra, another artist says, “I have a fetish for vibrant colours and folk crafts. Rooted to traditions but modern and contemporary in approach is what I am. My semi-folk and Madhubani works exude this essence. Painted on acrylic sheets my works portray traditional elements and concepts in a style that is unmistakably modern and urbane.”Unarguably there is room for every style when it comes to paintings. But are some styles more popular with customers? “There are enough people for every style. But for a painting to inspire purchase it has to appeal to the eyes,”shares Arora. “Most people do not prefer themes that are too abstract or depressing.” she adds.

Times of india

Reflections of the soul

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