It was a chance meeting at one of the social networking sites and common passions that brought international artists from various countries for an art camp in the city. Seven international artists not only displayed their work but also participated in a residency program at the State Art Gallery with seven other Indian artists which was organised by Pegasus Foundation in collaboration with Kalanirvana International Art Centre.
Whether it is the story of Iran expressing hope, pain and change by Mehrnoush Pishroyan or a charcoal representation of the 9/11 aftermath by Jacquline Lima, the various artists have not only brought a part of their culture but also absorbed the local culture and art.
Jacquline Lima, a senior American artist talks about her stay in Hyderabad and says, “My experience has been phenomenal and the visual field here is extremely complex. It is filled with activity and to get it all on one surface is challenging. I am just taking back the canvas with me, I still need to process everything that I have seen and felt.”
Most of her work is depicted in spheres which according to her open up a wide whole space. “I don't believe in doing still life and I want the whole world depicted in spheres. My work is all about perspective,” she adds.
Even her works on the September 11 attacks are poignant and she adds that her sketches helped her come to terms with the tragedy.
“A week after the attack, I went to the site and started sketching. There were days, when I used to come back home and weep. However, it was extremely therapeutic,” she explains.
Another artist Sharlene Schmidt from New Zealand has found expression for her passion for music and dance through art.
“Music has an international language. It represents love, romance and every other emotion. I dance while I paint,” she says. Her painting of the sitar and the tabla with the reflection of a danseuse in the background speaks volumes about her work.
A member of the New Zealand Art Guild, she also provides a platform and guidelines to amateur artists to get their work accepted and recognized.
“We are also thinking of exchanging artists between India and New Zealand in order to promote global art,” explains Sharlene.
However, both the artists feel that artists don't consider any boundaries and efforts like the residency programs can bring a positive impact on global contemporary art.
