The childlike quality of the figures, effervescence of the colours and mirth in the story of Nayanaa Kanodia’s canvases never fail to strike a chord with the viewer. In her latest body of work “The Great Outdoors”, Mumbai-based Kanodia once again keeps up with her past record. The naïve artist makes an effort to engage the viewers on the strength of an apt colour palette, playful narrative and strong composition. Showing in Delhi after three years, Kanodia is back with her specimens of naïve art in which she tackles man’s relationship with nature and technology.
“Despite the comforts provided by our technology we still seek solace in outdoors. But it is a challenge to balance these polarities of the world in which we reside. Only if we conserve our nature would we be able to continue with scientific research,” says one of the few naïve artists of India. The 20 oils on display at Art Alive Gallery depict men and women in proximity with nature yet enjoying the comforts of technology.
The childlike simplicity is a major characteristic of the genre that was once upon a time dominated by artists with little or no training. Largely self-taught Kanodia apprenticed with Anjolie Ela Menon. And then she was drawn to the genre because of its ability for an expression that allows the artist to handle serious topics in a playful manner.
“The individuals can view my show in vastly disparate ways all of which are thought provoking and intriguing. A lot of my collectors tell me that even though they have lived with the painting for a certain period, they still keep spotting something new,” says Kanodia.
In one of the works she depicts a man and woman on a bicycle. There is a dog too and the woman holds an umbrella and a mobile. In another work a just married couple is being photographed against the backdrop of a temple and lush greenery. In yet another work an idol of the elephant god Ganesh is perched atop a taxi as a family, dressed in bright clothes and ornaments keenly looks out of the windows. “There is mirth and satire which has evolved with the time. The technique of four layers that I used has remained the same. My colours are neither opaque nor gaudy.”
(The exhibition “The Great Outdoors” is on at Art Alive, S 221, Panchsheel Park, till August 20)
