His lithographs were bought by eminent art historian Herbert Edward Read, Tate Gallery in London, and Museum of Modern Art, New York. He also has the distinction of exhibiting with masters like Picasso, Miro, Dali and Braque.
But, S.V. Rama Rao, a Chicago- based Indian artist, is down to earth and easy to converse with. He understands the interviewer, and the interview flows like a river. “Many people keep questioning me why I do abstract paintings. All I tell them is — I love abstract. Telugus may not understand my paintings at this moment. But, a day would come when they will appreciate my works,” he says. Any artist likes to take his art to a newer plane. He strives to carve a niche for himself. There are many instances in the history of art, the artists’ distinction is recognised posthumously. “I want to live even after I die, not just live when I am alive,” he says. Mr. Rao visited Vijayawada Cultural Centre here on Thursday. Speaking to The Hindu on the sidelines, Mr. Rao shared his views on art, artists and their lives, government’s role in promotion of art and culture.
Andhra Pradesh has rare distinction of being a birthplace for new styles of art and sculpture. The 2 and 3 dimensional sculptures can be found in Amaravathi. “We created these styles. These are our rich heritage and culture that needs to be promoted. The State government should set up two museums — one for contemporary art and another for ancient,” says the Padma Shri awardee.
The government had set up an art museum housing paintings of Damerla Rama Rao and others at Rajahmundry. But, these galleries need to be air-conditioned to protect the rare paintings. Mere high rise buildings and best of infrastructure were not signs of development. Art and culture should also be promoted. The government was expected to revive the fine arts academies, he says. The onus lies on people too. Mere felicitations, claps and appreciations would not suffice. There were artists who died of starvation. Art collection is seen as a hobby in Western countries. Taking a cue from them, at least the affluent should collect the art. It would help the artists in leading a decent life, he adds. He is, probably, the only Indian artist of modern art acclaimed by Western art critics.
His desire to innovate and excel brought him enough fame. Mr. Rao wields his pen as creatively as his brush — he is a published bilingual (Telugu and English) poet and an author. His poetry is translated into Hindi also.
Many people keep questioning me why I do abstract paintings. All I tell them is — I love abstract.
S.V. Rama Rao
Chicago- based Indian artist
