Pairing visual storytelling with a live comedy performance, this show makes a case for humour as something vital for humans
Art by Nataraj
Hyderabad-based showroom Kadari Art Gallery is hosting Four Voices, One Narrative: The Art of Seeing the Funny Side, a group exhibition that brings together four artists — Gurmeet Marwah, Mrinal Dey, Rajeshwara Rao and S. Nataraj — each exploring humour as a visual narrative.
Humour has long been recognised for its ability to disarm, connect, and illuminate the absurdities of life. The overarching display at the show, Laughter Lines: Humour on Canvas, builds on that idea, taking viewers through works that play with irony, exaggeration and visual punch lines. The collection asks: What makes something funny? And why do we need laughter now more than ever?
The show’s title is more than a clever pun. Laughter triggers endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters; and the artists’ works tap into cultural quirks, human contradictions, and the everyday moments that spark unexpected laughter.
Laughter as rebellion
A. Rajeshwara Rao’s paintings talk about transition. He shared how he stretches the prosaic confines to reveal the absurd and the surreal. “Laughter is a form of rebellion, a way to confront the harsh truths with a smile,” he said, and added, “We all dream in our way, and in my paintings, I capture that fleeting moment of possibility,” he said.
The show’s title is more than a clever pun. Laughter triggers endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters; and the artists’ works tap into cultural quirks, human contradictions, and the everyday moments that spark unexpected laughter.
Laughter as rebellion
A. Rajeshwara Rao’s paintings talk about transition. He shared how he stretches the prosaic confines to reveal the absurd and the surreal. “Laughter is a form of rebellion, a way to confront the harsh truths with a smile,” he said, and added, “We all dream in our way, and in my paintings, I capture that fleeting moment of possibility,” he said.
Nature’s abundance
S. Nataraj’s body of work hinges on nature’s plenitude and personal lore. The hidden details within his work invite viewers to look for unplumbed depths. He told us at the show, “We seek to control in this world, but, it’s time to step back and listen.”
Nearly ‘happy’ together
S. Nataraj’s body of work hinges on nature’s plenitude and personal lore. The hidden details within his work invite viewers to look for unplumbed depths. He told us at the show, “We seek to control in this world, but, it’s time to step back and listen.”
Nearly ‘happy’ together
Stand-up comedian Avinash Agarwal asked questions that quickly led to funny, spontaneous exchanges. “Who’s been married the longest in the room? And who’s already thinking about their next vacation?” he joked. He also riffed on the chaos of having kids, whether it’s the constant noise or the unpredictable tantrums.
‘The Art of Seeing the Funny Side’ runs till 25th February 2025 at Kadari Art Gallery, Jubilee Hills.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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