The theme of Lord Krishna and his leelas never goes out of fashion. Especially when it comes to art. Look at Shan Bhatnagar’s canvases that reflect the Pichwai painting tradition, and you’ll understand.
A few of his small and large format canvases have been mounted at The Leela Galleria, The Leela Palace Chennai. The exhibition, presented in association with Apparao Galleries, is called ‘The Gilded Edge.’
Pichwai paintings are a derivative of the Nathdwara painting tradition, which is part of the grand Mewar style of painting that’s native to Rajasthan. They are largely wall art used as a background to Lord Shrinath, a child manifestation of Lord Krishna. Bhatnagar explains, “My idea of painting Shrinathji is to re-create the darshan of the deity and also my experience. Shrinathji is usually worshiped in three ways - through bhog (offering); shringar (decoration) and sangeet (music). The decoration for Shrinathji is elaborate. And I have tried to incorporate that in my canvases.” Incidentally, the Sanskrit word ‘pichwai’ literally means ‘back’ (pich) ‘hanging’ (wais).
A trip to the famous Nathdwara temple in Rajasthan left Bhatnagar much impressed. “My paintings are not Pichwai in the traditional sense, but a reflection of my experiences during that visit.”
Rich and innovativeThe works on display are indeed an outpouring of devotion in happy hues and bold yet soft strokes complete with fish-shaped eyes, a distinct feature. But lending a rich and innovative touch is the contemporary edging that Bhatnagar has added to each piece. “I have used a lot of traditional Rajasthani embroideries such as gotta patti work, zardosi, kasabhkai, kundan jewellery and salma sitara as embellishments.”
Cows, lotuses, parrots and gopis dominated in the 12x12 mixed media where earth hues – yellow, blue, orange, lilac, pink – give them an ethnic feel. However, the larger (60x48) ones showcase Rasleela in dramatic contrasts. There’s one called ‘Diwali: Dark Night of Light’ that is a splash of black and orange; another, ‘Royal Prince: Winter Jhanki’ is a visual treat in red, blue and gold. However, the one titled ‘Holi’ is a rather quiet affair, with more of white and pink.
There is plenty of action and emotion that’s palpable in every canvas which takes anywhere between two and five months to complete. Says Shan, “Here, Shrinathji is treated like a young prince, symbolic of the luxuries of life. So, I have tried to capture many moments and moods associated with Him.”
Commenting on the current art scene in India, Bhatnagar says, “I think Indian contemporary art is fantastic. It is deep and so connected with life. I have lived in Europe for a while. But I was never so intrigued by the contemporary art scene as I am now. Artists such as Raza, Reddappa Naidu, Shakti Burman and Ganesh Pyne have something new to offer every time I see their work.” As for the current show, spirituality meets artistry here in a seamless manner.
The ‘Gilded Edge’ show by Shan Bhatnagar is on till September 25, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.