Richness abounds: The colours suggest tales untold

MythologicaL images come alive in this special series of artworks. Inspired by the age-old traditions that form the essence of India, the paintings are a cornucopia of tradition meeting a sort of tongue-in-cheek humour. The result is truly commendable.

The artist, Appanna Pujari from Chitrakala Parishath, has been inspired by traditional paintings and has innovated using them as his base. The traditional images are drawn from the eclectic slylisation of Indian iconography. And the most unique twist in these works is Pujari’s ability to add a bit of wit and humour.

The artist

The artist will be showing 30 paintings at the KYNKYNY Gallery with a preview showing at Istana on April 13. The exhibition is called ‘A Divine Encounter’, rightly so, with its inspiration being taken from a higher realm.

“I have a passion for traditional paintings. In this exhibition, I have displayed works from the Dasha Avatara series, the Mahabharat series and lots more,” says Appanna who is from Bijapur district’s Sindagi taluka. Having completed his degree at CKP, Pujari has done a master’s degree for two years in mythological paintings.

Trained in three styles Rajasthani, Basoli and Kangra, his paintings are a vision into folklore. “For the Kangra style, the focus is more on the landscape and varying perspectives. In the Basoli style, figurative sketches and body language is the emphasises and the Rajasthani style delves into line drawings, with some contemporary touches,” explains Appanna.

Favourites

The artist’s favourite is the Natya Shiva painting that portrays a scene where Bhrama and Vishnu look on as Shiva dances to instrumental music. Pujari’s works speak a language that is traditional yet has contemporary nuances. Rooted in tradition style, see the artist lend a strong contemporary feel to religious and mythological figures at this special showing.

AT: Kynkyny Art Gallery. From April 14 to May 5. Call 32914700