Ask M Vijayalakshmi the shape of victory and she will give an artistic reply. The retired judicial officer and district judge will showcase her works at an exhibition titled ‘Vijayakruti’ meaning shape of victory at Phoenix Arena. The series is a tribute to all the women in happier times. Given the kind of challenges women face, these paintings are an attempt to spread peace and positivity. It is also significant to mention that it was a personal crisis which helped her to embrace art. “Art helped me to come out of depression due to a personal loss. Art especially, colour painting helps to overcome physical as well as emotional problems,” she states adding a few doctors also prescribe this as part of their treatment.
A work by M Vijayalakshmi
Art came to her naturally. “I enjoyed drawing since childhood. I was thrilled when I could create a picture which translated my thoughts. Anything beautiful inspires me to draw.”
Her muse
Vijayalakshmi finds her muse in a ‘woman.’ “A woman is a fascinating subject. I feel she is beautiful, compassionate as well as competent. She is the ‘prakruti’ and so the subject of my paintings,” she points out showing her works. Colourful and vibrant are the two words to describe her paintings. Traditionally dressed, the women are in a celebratory mood and enjoy life. “I feel the traditional dressing makes women look charming and beautiful,” she smiles. It is also interesting to note that she has been doing women-centric themes so far. With no formal training in painting, she admits her knowledge in the nuances of the art is inadequate. “Especially the intricate details, I do mostly by trial and error.”
Other works
This is Vijayalakshmi’s second exhibition. Previously, she had exhibited a few of her works in a group exhibition. “I am both excited and nervous as people outside of my family and friends can give dispassionate feedback. Sale proceeds of the exhibition will also be donated to the Prajwala Foundation run by Sunitha Krishnan.”
A work by M Vijayalakshmi
She shares she had a fulfilling career as a judge. “I had an opportunity to preside over Mahila courts in Vijayawada and Hyderabad where I dealt with cases involving atrocities against women.” She also worked as principal district judge, Cuddapah, Metropolitan Sessions Judge, Hyderabad, Chief Judge, City Civil Courts, Hyderabad, Registrar – Administration, High Court of Andhra Pradesh, Director, Andhra Pradesh Judicial Academy and finally, presided over Central Government Industrial Tribunal, Hyderabad.
She is also glad she is able to display her works in March coinciding with the International women’s month. She looks forward to expand her repertoire on women. “Painting certainly is a strong medium of expression which I would like to engage in. As I am retired from service, I am able to paint whenever I feel like it.”
