Tales in acrylic

For more than 500 years, the Indian subcontinent had nurtured some of the most distinctive and vibrant painting traditions. This summer presents a new exhibition of paintings that encompasses Indian art making traditions. The works being displayed by Shibu Chand in this exhibition at Draavidia Gallery (Fort Kochi) present subtle interplays between friendships and hilarity. 

Shibu Chand has been creating art since childhood and has been a full-time artist and art instructor for the past 13 years. He had the desire to create his own art since the time he could hold a crayon in his hand. It was when his parents encouraged him to follow his passion, he began to practice art as a full-time profession. “I learned about art, the history behind the objects, how to research and there is always a story behind the object,” quotes Shibu. Today, he is using his emotions to convey a message in each piece of art he creates. 

He has been candid about the fact that he prefers to surround himself with his work rather than people. “Real friendship is born in the heart and remains there forever,” he says. His paintings speak about how people without friends often experience the vulnerability of loneliness. Largely influenced by his childhood memories of friends and family, Shibu’s current work precipitates the importance of having a supportive network within friends and family. “Social media can never replace the authenticity and intimacy of face-to-face interactions,” cites Shibu.

Talking about acrylic as his primary medium of choice, he quotes, “I use acrylic as my medium because of its quick and convenient drying time and also because it lends itself to a wide range of creative possibilities. It is a very light fast medium, which means the colour of the paint does not fade very much as time passes.” 

The exhibition will be open till February 20.