For many art connoisseurs, ‘self-portrait’ is likely to bring to mind Van Gogh’s 1889 painting which shows the artist with a bandaged ear. It is, however, 2015, and time for a fresh look at the concept of ‘self-portrait’, going by the ongoing exhibition, ‘Self-Portrait Bonanza,’ at the Tasmai gallery here.
A total of 16 artists, including artists who paint banners, have come together for this exhibition, which has works in oils, acrylics and other mediums.
“The self-portrait allows for soul-searching and introspection for the artists. The idea of the autobiography has always been appealing, and this exhibition gives artists the opportunity to explore the concept of how the artist looks at himself or herself,” says Kirti Chandak, director, Tasmai.
Anandavelou V., Ariapouthry S., Danasegar S., Ezhilarasan E., Jayaraman M., Saravanan P., Kirti Chandak, Murugan S., Nele Martens, Pavitra Estrem, Saroja T., Sekar R., Tiroumale D., Upendra Ratra, Vishwajyoti Mohrhoff and Venkateshan S.R. are the artists who have participated in this exhibition, an interesting exercise for not just the artist but the viewer as well.
While Mr. Venkateshan’s work seems to be inspired from the recent film, ‘Bahubali’, showing the artist as a warrior, Mr. Anandavelou has painted himself as a primitive man, attracting the curiosity of visitors.
With many commercial artists turning to creative art, the exhibition has given them the chance to show their skill.
Mr. Saravanan, who has worked on banners and in commercial art, has drawn himself in the mould of a hero, like the many portraits of political leaders and film stars that he has done.
While some works offer a clear portrait of the artist, some works look at the idea of the self through abstract art. As part of the exhibition, portrait workshops have been held in clay, pencil and watercolour. The exhibition is on at Tasmai, Kuruchikuppam, till August 31.
