‘Chathuratma,’ the word refers to a painting-interpretation of a soul on a four-side surface, which is beautiful. It is also the name of a group of artists from the central Travancore region who have been on a mission for the past one year.
The exhibition of paintings organised by four artists under the banner of Chathuratma began at the Kerala Lalithakala Academy Art Gallery here on Wednesday. It is a tribute to artist C.K. Ra, former chairman of the academy, as well a tribute to the cultural heritage of Kozhikode.
The exhibition was inaugurated by the children of seven stalwarts who belonged to cultural heritage of Malabar — Anees Basheer, son of Vaikom Muhammed Basheer; Sumitra, daughter of S.K. Pottekkat; E. Sudhakaran, son of Uroob; Pushpa, daughter of Thikkodiyan; Jabbar, son of M.S. Baburaj; Sebunnisa, daughter of K.A. Kodungalloor; and Santhosh, son of Nilambur Balan. They created a painting in rainbow colours to inaugurate the show.
Artists C.K. Viswanathan, C.P. Prasannan, Thantri Dileepan, and Anil V.C. are entirely different in their styles and perspectives which make the exhibition a unique endeavour.
C.K. Vishwanathan’s paintings are part of a series titled ‘Malabar Fantasia’ which features images that make Kozhikode what it is today.
Thantri Dileepan, a self-taught artist has come up with a series titled ‘Enlightenment,’ that follows a distinct style and colour pattern to express the various aspects of the theme. The unique technique of making the paint flow on its own is a distinct feature of his works.
C.P. Prasannan’s epic series is noted for the vibrancy, colour, and distinct style that create a smile on any viewer. Kathakali, Sakunthalam, and figures form epics are given a different style in his paintings.
Anil V.C. has his foot firm on the traditional Kerala mural painting style, yet he dares to experiment and endeavour far and wide. He has adopted the mural style for a unique work on the plight of nature.
The exhibition will conclude on April 26.
