a canvas, an easel, a palette, a brush and some paint is all :)

allsmiles | 18 August, 2004 06:06

Ever been to an art gallery? Does anyone (other than connosieurs, collectors) want to go there? I really doubt that.

I visited one recently. What took me there? First, I was simply tired of the blank white walls staring at me and secondly, there was one very close to home.

Just as I stepped into it some people flocked around. Obviously no takers. Or we really looked like some patrons. They gave us more than detailed map of what-was-where. There was nothing for sale except for some souveinir shop in some remote corner. Fine.

Deciding that I had to make up for the Rs. 20 I spent on an entry fee .. I might as well see what I can make of it. Learn a tip or two about art appreciation, maybe.

There was a real good collection there I must say. They had a different art forms in various galleries, the more prominent ones being :-

Rock art

Rock art is used for drawings, paintings and engravings on the bare rocks and the walls of naturally formed caves, rock shelters and boulders. Evidence of this art form is present right from Neolithic, Mesolithic and Megalithic Ages. The challenge lies in uneven surfaces. Typical geometric figures, hand prints and what he sees around him seem to be artist's muse, which is in fact very inspiring mainly because of primitive man's desire to express through art.

Ajanta

This form is a high point in Indian Art. With the aid of simple tools like chisel and hammer, brilliant technique and conception impressive figures were carved out on the walls. These exquisite wall paintings and sculptures speak volumes of Indian art. Most of the paintings depict stories from the Jatakas and tales of Buddha. They provide insight into the lives of people of the 3rd and 4th century. Princesses and nymphs, are also elaborately portrayed.

Miniature art

Indian miniature painting has often been described as a 'visual chamber music'. These works are basically visual creations of emotional and perceptive aspects that depict the ragas of Indian classical music. 'Miniature' generally refers to a painting that is small in size, amazingly intricate, meticulous and delicate in brushwork. This art form thrived during the Moghul period because the rulers patronised them. The veiled women with nose-rings, wide-eyes and graceful stances may not be just an art form, but speak of immense charm of a bygone era.

Chugtai

His line-and-wash technique particularly favoured poetic thought. His paintings aresaid to be inspired by Persian fairy tales that wer narrated to hi m by his mother. He is said to be a pioneer in using Islamic classics to express feelings of community. An original Chugtai today is said to be a treasure.

Contemporary Art

With the arrival of the British, Indian painting took a new turn. This era saw the emergence of an Indo-European genre of painting. Much of the art of this era depicts the then newly emerging social and political consciousness. Most modern Indian paintings contain vivd imagery depicting the human condition in modern India. With modern techniques they express India in its diverse forms, rich in variety and respect for tradition.

It is said a picture can speak a thousand words. As a layman what would be your first impression as you look at a picture? How would you decide if a picture was worth it or not? I mean if you looked at Mona Lisa by da Vinci or "Sunflowers" by van Gogh would you have ever thought they were masterpieces. People from the art world have deemed tham as masterpieces do we accept it at that. Many a time we have found ourselves swaying to the popular opinion and critical review without actually knowing why we like them. I think one has to go with what one feels because there is no right or wrong here. There is a popular saying that a artist/poet can tread into territories where even sun beams can never dream of entering and that would be the human mind.

Comments

[No Subject]

Mayavi | 18/08/2004, 09:09

Ravi kanchani chota kavin kanchun :)
Nice post smiles.

[No Subject]

dr | 18/08/2004, 10:28

Thats the one, Mayavi. Thanks :)

[No Subject]

Lily | 18/08/2004, 15:01

very informative :D, well done

[No Subject]

Anil | 29/08/2004, 19:33

To borrrow Lily's words "very informative". It is indeed rare to see an Indian blog about art and painting! I did learn some new stuff. But I was confused by one point. In the Ajanta style of paintings...you gave the impression that they were painted with chisels and hammers! As far as I know they first sculpted and then applied paint over that right? Please correct me if I'm wrong! It is a pity that I know so less about Indian art. Your post was a step in the right direction. Would be nice if you would go into more detail.

[No Subject]

Anil | 29/08/2004, 19:34

[No Subject]

dr | 29/08/2004, 20:58

Actually the visit to the art gallery was an eye opener of sorts for me too.

I wouldnt say I had a flair for art and things like that but in pursuit of professional education, many of us happen to set aside other faculties that could provide all round growth and personal enrichment. These faculties if pursued would add a new dimension to learning and knowledge that we acquire through reading books and academics.

When I visted the gallery, I was awestruck. There were these huge paintings in vast numbers and each artist tries to reach out to people and manages to appeal to all those who have a few minutes to spare and a mind to appreciate.

India has a rich history in art and sculpture. And its pretty obvious to see how it has evolved over the years. Each age art form just as beautiful (if not more).

You are right about the chisel and hammer thing and thanks for dropping by :)

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