A space called home

Art Srinivas Prasad puts together a patchwork of ideas on our idea of a home

October 02, 2011 04:47 pm | Updated 04:47 pm IST

On auto pilot: The constant transformation of spaces in nature

On auto pilot: The constant transformation of spaces in nature

Srinivasa Prasad's “Nirantara”, explores the idea of “home” through space (both inner and outer) and surroundings. The exhibition begins with photographs taken in the surroundings of his home. In “Nest”, he has displayed two snapshots of a leafless tree, one with a pile of dry leaves under the tree being lifted up by the wind and another with the dry leaves forming a nest on one of the branches.

In “Mannina Doni”, he has photographed a clay boat on a thin film of water. In the next snapshot, all the water fills the boat which is standing on dry ground, a commentary on today's “consumer” behaviour.

“Mobile Garden” is a photograph of an auto rickshaw on whose rear grows a climber. There is also a slideshow depicting the construction of a small mud hut using twigs, hay and topped with mud. According to Srinivas, the photographical works “address the irony inherent in the landscape”. Enter the second hall the whole room is filled with a large boulder made of newspaper pulp titled “Usiru”.

Then there is the “Igloo” made of old household objects covered in used clothes. All the objects together with the cloth create a “patchwork” igloo. The room on the right hand side is occupied by “Rebirth”, a large tent made of recycled gunny sacks. A few balloons are tied to the ceiling of the tent.

“Rebirth looks at giving space a shape and its scope for changes. The inside of the tent is festive, representing the joy of living that exists everywhere, irrespective of whether it is a slum or an affluent home,” describes Sreenivasa, in his write-up.

Another work titled “Routine” is made of hexagonal balls covered with newspapers.

The huge balls fill the entire room. Through this work the artist has tried to create “a feeling of overflow” and “give a sense of overwhelming excessiveness”.

In “Nirantara”, which according to the artist means the “incessant, continuous” the artist has tried to explore the constant process of transformation (of its spaces) that exists in nature. This constant transformation provides a space for different creatures in nature. These creatures create their homes in these spaces according to their needs.

Sreenivasa has succeeded in his intention to create “meditative spaces”. His works have sanctity and peace that is innate tonature.

The tranquillity has been reinforced through his use of recycled materials, which even contain the smell of earth that is so fresh and appealing.

“Nirantara” will be on view at Gallery Ske, Berlie Street, Langford Town until October 22.

Call 65951972 for more details.

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