“Colour provokes a psychic vibration. Colour hides a power still unknown but real, which acts on every part of the human body.” — Wassily Kandinsky.
This week is a tale of art shows which did make a difference. The art shows at Venkatappa Art gallery these days never cease to impress. Gombe Sambhrama held at Venkatappa recently had everyone in a sense of awe. The show was a take on how artists can define and create gombe (doll’s ) in a creative yet unique way. Being the Navratri season, there are numerous families who throng the Venkatappa Art Gallery. VAG Forum displays an eclectic presentation that would impact the visitors, who would look at this topic in an imaginative and investigative way. Navarathri is the perfect event for the customary introduction of Dasara Gombe, in many homes. However popular this topic may appear to be, here in, artists are taking a sneak peek at the subject of Gombe (Dolls). Artist Paramesh Jolad reveals, “In this work, I see the characters of the Octopus in the politics and the corrupt politicians. I feel we are also playing the politics directly or indirectly in every aspect of our lives. My dream is to see the life without politics, whether it’s possible or not but, it is my strong view.”
This is an exceptionally unique presentation and depiction of dolls made by artists utilising prominent culture, myths, folklore and convention; every day masterful items. This display observes Navarathri in a novel and inventive way. The art display also had a talk by RG Singh who is a connoisseur and collector and the man behind the Bombe Mane in Mysuru. Artists like Paramesh Jolad, Meera Gyanchand, Sheera Betnag and many others created dolls which were not only cute but thought provoking. While the Gombe Sambhrama did leave a mark, another initiative has been left an impression on young artist’s and collectors is the Art Park Bengaluru initiative by SG Vasudev.
This happens once a month and is aimed at giving budding artists a platform to interact with potential collectors who are still understanding art. Works here are painted live by the artists, hence promoting a direct interaction with the buyer. The initiative has taken shape and seems to be moving in the right direction. The last event saw eminent personality Sudhakar Rao grace the event. Sharing his views emerging artist Bharat P stated,“It is a noble initiative which helps us interact with buyers and art lovers and acts as a tool for us to take our art to the public.”
Another emerging artist is Guruprasad Raikar, illustrator, who believed also feels the Art Park initiative has really helped them a lot. It’s nice to see the city’s art scene brimming with new ideas. Bodes well for the future!
— The writer is an art expert and curator.
