Shades of the flute

One may find it fascinating, how characters of Indian mythology become muses for various artists. But what is even more fascinating is how the same mythological characters are often painted not only by artists residing in India but overseas too.

The capital was seen immersed in colours of the divine world as an art exhibition titled ‘Divine Intervention’ was recently organised at the Art Spice Gallery of the Metropolitan Hotel and Spa, displaying the artworks of G Subramanian and leading-artist P. Gnana.

The exhibition showcases 50 paintings and sculptures of Lord Krishna and other Gods and it promises to connect viewers to the deepest human chord of emotive capacity. The works are a contemporary representation of Lord Krishna in a simple yet soulful manner.

In a chat with Babita Gupta, owner of the gallery and curator, she reveals that these artworks are a more contemporary version, which makes it different from the other works that have earlier depicted Krishna.“Some things are really universal. Krishna and Ganesha have been in our heritage and culture forever. We as Indians are always influenced by these images. With the Radha-Krishna movement, the awareness has spread abroad as well,” she speaks on how Krishna as a subject is adored globally. His fascinating life story makes people from around the world relate to him, she believes.

G Subramanian, one of the two artists on display cites his father’s life as a theater artist portraying mythological characters and Gods, as the inspiration behind his art. “The collage medium makes it more attractive when the subject of Radha and Krishna is used. This is the reason why I paint Krishna,” he says.

There are many artists who have painted the God of love. But Subramanian feels his works are different from the rest. He explains, “I selected the collage medium where it is childish i.e. very playful. It has a big face, more smiley and has closed eyes.”

When asked about what makes it so exciting to paint Krishna, he says, “One thing is the colour (of the lord’s skin). It is like the sky. Another thing is that he is always with the flute, the cow and Radha. This subject itself very attractive.”

He says that there were no challenges that he faced while coming up with these artworks. “I’m not struggling. I take it easy. I just do it.” On the output side of things, he seemed upbeat about the way the paintings shaped up. “Many times even after framing, if I find something is missing, I’ll remove the paint and finish the work. I want to give a 100% effort. I will not do just like that even if it is just one piece of work,” he concludes.

— The exhibition is ongoing till September 21