Early on Sunday morning, 20 women in Kozhikode set out to sketch the city. Under the guidance of noted artist K.K. Muhammed, they explored the landmarks of the city and copied them on paper.
The sketching workshop-cum-heritage walk organised by the Avani Art Initiative was a novel opportunity for history and architecture enthusiasts in the city. That sketching skills were not a criterion for entry was an added advantage and was well utilised by many.
The ancient Parekh Nivas on Gujarati Street was the first stop. Enthusiastic participants spared no time in sketching the dilapidated building with open windows.
While Mr. Muhammed gave valuable inputs and sketching techniques to make the pictures better, architect Soumin Raja chipped in with information on basic characteristics of traditional Gujarati settlements.
After a brief stoppage at the Krishna temple on the street, the group proceeded to Kuttichira, which houses the age-old Muslim families of the city. Mustafa Mohammed, a chronicler of the history of Kuttichira, who joined the team later, explained the complex cultural traits of the region. The 700-year-old Mishkal Mosque at Kuttichira excited the participants with not just its architecture, but the ambience too.
The team was led by Avani Art Initiative programme director Sumitra Nair while interior designer Naseeb Mehmood was the tour guide.
Art show
The event was organised as part of Avani’s Art Residency show featuring the works of Mr. Muhammed. His works, mostly created during the residency at Avani, have been on display at its gallery in Chalappuram since December 13. The show titled ‘Vision and Riddle Or The Dispute Over the Meaning of Visual Scene’ features some unique art works in unconventional media.
The artist has used etching ink on wood, which has been enhanced occasionally by fire. The series ‘Remebering the Present’ and numerous water colour paintings form a major part of the show. The exhibition concludes on December 30.
