A solo show titled Cosmic Rhythm, presently on display at the IconArt Gallery, contains a series of works by Usha Patibandla. Her paintings unveil a novel technique and visual extravagance that command the viewer’s attention and intrigue. The fluid flow of colours creates a dreamy, outworldly charm, where several hues merge into one another creating delicate patterns and intricate lattice work. These works, at times, look like close-ups or zoomed in sections of space and at other times they embody the vastness of the universe’s galaxies. Quite often, the nebulous, deep space in Usha’s art resembles the kind of view one gets while browsing through the sky with a telescope. Each work seems to be in the process of taking shape — mutating, and in the process of a rhythmic metamorphosis.
One of Usha’s artwork on display at the ongoing exhibition
For Usha, who accomplished her academic studies in fine arts from Andhra University, portrait painting has, since a long time, been a favourite genre. The present series, however, is different from her earlier works. Elaborating on the technique, she says, “The process of painting with resin on wood gives me only half an hour to work at a stretch as after that the surface gets dry and fixed. If I work in layers, I have to wait for 24 hours and then superimpose my next layer.
Usha’s work on a table top
The medium is addictive and I feel completely comfortable and connected to the process. The key to this work is to let the colours flow and thus allow each piece to be a unique form of energy.” Interestingly, one of her circular works, titled ‘Euphoric’, features the undertones of multiple hues, which merge together in an abstract motion. The effervescent canvas beholds an undercurrent of energy that enlivens the surface and the experimental aspect of the medium excels in granting the artist’s work a novel texture.
