The paintings, gleaned from several years, are as much a work of art as they are a documentation of the state of children in several parts of the country.
The ‘Art from the Heart’ exhibition by Kerala artist C.D. Jain at the Maison Colombani, Alliance Francaise, has works dating from the late 1990s to the present period, and does not shy away from addressing issues of child labour, child abuse, servitude or paedophilia.
However, this is not all. There are also works depicting the joys of childhood and the mother-child bond. From the solemn browns to the vivid blues, yellows and greens, the works are in different mediums like acrylic and oil. There are motifs like the cross, a matchstick symbolising children in the matchstick industry, as well as happier themes of children and nature.
“You can find divinity in every child,” says the artist, who has a background in teaching. He has held art workshops for children in different places since 1988, and believes in the power of art therapy for the betterment of children. He says an education in art and culture is vital for schoolchildren.
It was an encounter with a girl child who had fallen into prostitution that set Mr. Jain on a journey to capture the lives of children on canvas since the last 18-odd years. The artist had wanted to make a film, and travelled through Tamil Nadu and other parts of Southern India for around two years interacting with children, studying about their lives and taking copious notes.
“The country is said to have one of the highest rates of child labourers but we want to cover it up. It is a major social issue and it is alarming. Through art, I want to tell society that child abuse is prevalent. I am accountable to society,” says the artist.
Inspired by Vincent Van Gogh, the artist wants to be “honest” with his work. Mr. Jain adds that a majority of his exhibitions have been in government-owned galleries, and for him art is not about commerce.
Thus, his works do not display a price tag, he says. “Art is a powerful medium. It leaves a strong impact on a person who views it,” says Mr. Jain. The exhibition continues till December 3.
Works displayed also depict the joys of childhood and the mother-child bond
