It is a sight every foodie in Puducherry can easily recognise. The town’s favourite mutton samosa and soup food cart opposite the railway station comes alive in Shanmugam H.’s watercolour painting in a perfect blend of warm and cool colours.
Mr. Shanmugam’s works are part of an ongoing watercolour exhibition by 10 Puducherry-based artists at Tasmai gallery, ‘Cooling the Summer with Watercolours’.
Delight for art patrons
There is more in store for art patrons wishing to see the Puducherry region on canvas. In artist Tiroumale’s works, it is the majestic horses of the Red Earth Riding School, Auroville, which provide inspiration. Japanese artist Keiko Mima has spent many hours observing and sketching lotuses in a pond near the Ossudu Lake, so much so that locals call it ‘Keiko’s pond’, says Kirti Chandak, director, Tasmai.
Distinct place
The time spent has paid off, and is evident in the detailing in her series on lotuses which is also part of the exhibition. Nadeesan Prabou has earned a distinct place in the art world with his summer rain-drenched landscapes.
Many other artists have since been inspired to follow suit. The exhibition displays some of Mr. Prabou’s works which reflect his signature style.
Different style
The idea behind the exhibition is to present the different styles explored by each of the ten artists, says Ms. Chandak. They also showcase the creativity of the artists, she adds.
Challenging medium
Most people begin with watercolours but do not take it up professionally later, says Ms. Chandak.
“We chose watercolour as the medium as it is a challenging medium, where one can see the artist’s skill,” says Ms. Chandak. Many of the participating artists work with other mediums and found the exhibition an opportunity to work with watercolours.
Boost for art
Landscapes, portraits and abstract themes make their way to the exhibition which also features Akmal Hussain, Gayathry D., Jacques Beaumelle, Vishwajyoti Mohrhoff, Venkateshan S.R. and Kirti Chandak.
A workshop on watercolours led by Mr. Venkateshan was also held recently. The exhibition is on at Tasmai, Kuruchikuppam, till July 10.
In a bid to boost art in Puducherry, Tasmai is beginning an art appreciation course which will be held on Saturday evenings, and art classes on Sundays.
Details are available at Tasmai, Advocate Chinna Thambi Street, Kuruchukuppam.
