An exhibition of paintings depicting the life and teachings of 12th Century reformer Basaveshwara is being held here to mark Basava Jayanti.
The works by artist Shivalingappa are realistic, though they convey metaphysical concepts.
There are 12 works related to Basaveshwara and another 20 on Vachana Sahitya.
N.B. Kaverappa, an art connoisseur told The Hindu that there were many illustrations of Basaveshwara prepared at the instance of religious leaders. But, very few artists had delved deep into Vachana Sahitya for the benefit of common people. This was the first such exercise by an artist to convey the message of the reformer's philosophy through paintings, Mr. Kaverappa said.
Mr. Shivalingappa's works highlight the social circumstances that led to the rise of the Sharana movement and he is keen on completing the Sharana series of around 50 paintings by next year.
The exhibition has been organised by the Mysore Art Gallery and Ahikla Karnataka Sharana Sahitya Parishat.
It is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Suchitra Art Gallery, Kalamandira, and will be on till Thursday.
