The five galleries of Durbar Hall Art Gallery, Kochi, are now adorned with paintings and sculptures from different parts of the world. Art Maestro, the international art exhibition that kicked off on August 28 in Durbar Hall, features artworks by 250 artists.
As is to be expected in such a mega show, one could spot different mediums and techniques. From realism to abstract, different concepts and themes play on the canvas, opening a new world of art for art aficionados.
Organised by the Worldwide Art Movement, this is the third edition of the exhibition of award-winning works. This year’s Art Maestro award has been given to artist Zakir Hussain from Maharashtra. His work titled as ‘Tolerance’ points at the unrest prevailing in our country. Done in acrylic, it shows a slingshot catapult, which is partially damaged.
Manoj M.P’s painting ‘Aadu’, which has got a special mention, is based on Pathummayude Aadu, written by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer. Manoj has painted Basheer as taking rest on his arm chair surrounded by goats as if he is dreaming about them.
Swapan Roy’s (West Bengal) ‘Buddha’, V. Sambasivam’s (Chennai) ‘Old Lady’., John Kutty P.G.’s (Kerala) portrait of a tribal woman, and BTK Asok’s (Kerala) ‘Landscape’ are a few other paintings that have got special mention award. BTK Asok tries to evoke nostalgia by painting a village scene where a group of children playing on the riverbank.
It looks like Adrie Van De Nieuwenh, an artist from Nederland, has taken cues from Van Gogh for his untitled work. The pattern of his work and the bright hues would remind the master. N. Bhagavati Sundaram’s ‘Bathing Elephant’ done using colour bolt pens is a beautiful creation.
When it comes to portraits, there are paintings of ordinary people as well as celebrities. From paintings of an old woman and baby Shyamili to pencil sketches of David Beckham and Shraddha Kapoor are displayed there. Also, the sculptures made by George Kuriakose out of scrap materials are sure to catch the attention of connoisseurs.
The Kochi based Worldwide Art Movement intends to motivate upcoming talents in the art scenario. “The group was formed in 2000. In 2008, we created a community on facebook. More than 6900 artists are a part of it,” says the chairman of the group. The exhibition will conclude on September 7.
