The story of great art is often the story of great suffering. A case in point is that of 63-year old Kalamkari artist D. Lakshmamma, a native of Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh. Lakshmamma began learning the art at the relatively late age of 50, from her son-in-law, National awardee, K. Murali. However, Murali developed a heart ailment and died when he was only 42 . The devastated family had no-one to turn to, as Murali had been the sole breadwinner. “ Murali left behind the house we lived in, nil savings and a considerable debt incurred for his medical expenses. With a bereaved daughter and two young grand-children to educate, I shouldered the responsibility of getting my family back on its feet. Kalamkari was the only skill I knew,” she says.
Lakshmamma travelled to Delhi, where she stayed for a month. “Looking back now, I wonder where my strength came from. In Delhi’s bone-chilling cold, battling health problems, I petitioned and argued with officials at the Udyog Bhavan and the Development Commissioner, Handicrafts, fought for and finally won the right to exhibit at two prestigious events — the Suraj Kund Mela and ‘Master Creations’ National Handicrafts Fair at Dilli Haat. After this, exhibition offers and workshop invitations began trickling in.”
During the initial years of struggle, it was the kindness of strangers that kept her going. “Weavers from Indore and Bangalore whom I had met at craft fairs, supplied me with fabrics and extended credit,” she adds in an emotion-choked voice.
Today, daughter Vani is a skilled colourist, who oversees production. While Lakshmamma’s younger grandson attends college, older grandson Gunasekhar, a post graduate and MBA degree holder, has evolved into a Kalamkari master craftsman after years of intensive practice. Both grandmother and grandson have won State awards.
The USP of their work is a remarkable clarity of line and stunning use of natural dyes. Signature reds, yellows and blues appear richer, while luminous pinks and brilliant aqua glow in vibrant contrasts. How do they achieve these unusual hues? “The secret lies in the mixing and shading techniques we discovered through constant experimentation”. Scenes from the epics and Jataka tales embellish saris, dupattas, stoles, running material and wall hangings in soft cotton, silk and crepe. The duo’s paintings are far more than wearable art. A symbol of grit and courage in the face of odds,
Lakshmamma work will be featured in the Hast Karigar Society’s ‘Rhymes and Rhythms of Life’ exhibition at the Lalit Kala Akademi, August 30 – September 4 (10 a.m.-7 p.m.). Live demo: 3 p.m.-6 p.m.