Almost 20 years before the Cholamandal Artists’ Village was born on a stretch of sand by the beach in Madras, a small group of artists got together to form an organisation headed by artist K.C.S. Paniker. They called themselves The Progressive Painters’ Association (PPA) and their aim was to “grow and help grow”, as artist M. Senathipathi puts it.
Seated in his studio surrounded by his works, it’s nearly impossible to concentrate on the conversation. But PPA’s story, as narrated by Senathipathi and his artist-son S. Saravanan, the president, draws us in.
“We held our first miniature format show in 1971 in Pune,” recalls Senathipathi. “This was followed by shows in Madras and Bombay from ’71 to ’72.”
Every day was a struggle for an artist those days. PPA gave them the much-needed support, he says. “It gave them strength in numbers — they could confidently approach people and do shows as a group,” adds Saravanan.
At a time when art galleries were unheard of in Madras, the PPA organised art shows at petrol bunks and even in spaces with makeshift asbestos roofs. For them, all that mattered was a platform to showcase their art. The exposure and accessibility provided by the shows helped the artists grow.
“At our first miniature show, works were sold from Rs. 25 to Rs. 100. This was a time when one ground of land (2,400 sq ft) cost Rs. 450,” explains Senathipathi. This was a win-win situation for the artists, as well as those interested in buying their work. It’s with this in mind that the PPA is presently holding ‘Micro Trends’ at Cholamandal. With sizes not exceeding 15” x 15”, the exhibition consists of works by 28 artists.
“Small art is more beautiful,” feels Senathipathi. “It tests the artist’s skill. They can sit comfortably and work at a table, unlike for a work that is on a large scale.” Prices range from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 1 lakh.
“This presents an opportunity for young buyers to take home art that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.” Saravanan hopes to take the show across the country.
At the exhibition, upcoming artists share space with stalwarts such as V. Viswanathan and Senathipathi — an aspect that justifies PPA’s progressive stand. This is the seniors’ way of supporting youngsters in the field. “Ever since the association was formed, we’ve been providing artists opportunities, whether or not they are part of PPA,” says Saravanan.
For artist P. Gopinath, ‘Micro Trends’ took him back to his younger days as an artist. “Back then, there were no buildings at Cholamandal; just thatched huts. I had to confine myself to small sizes, since I had only a small table to work on.
But I now have a bigger studio,” he smiles.
“Art is usually seen as elitist; it is expensive and not everyone can afford it,” feels Senathipathi. But, the small format, he adds, takes it to the people. “Everyone can buy art now,” says Saravanan.