Umesh PK Artwork on display at Palette Gallery | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

KP Pradeep Kumar, an artist from Kochi, says about his work ‘The River Flowing Through Me’, “When an artist attempts to create something from nature, it goes beyond the depiction of simple things.” Ongoing exhibition ‘Paradise Regained’. The exhibition features 24 captivating works by 10 artists who have drawn inspiration from the landscapes.

lungs of the earth

“Trees as the lungs of the forest and the earth are eternal as a unifying theme,” says art curator Uma Nair. Artists have depicted the lush forests of Kerala, which are part of the exhibition’s conservation theme, says Nair. and underlines the message of conservation.

Each artwork presents a compelling narrative, carefully crafted by artists spanning generations, from emerging artists to veteran Paramjit Singh, whose dense and mysterious landscapes, featuring expertly crafted brushstrokes and colors, Create a distinctive glow as they move from realism to abstraction. Singh’s works showcase rugged hills, rocks, trees and sky.

Sumesh Artwork on display at Palette Gallery | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Six of those exhibiting their work are from Kerala, each of whom has used a unique technique to depict the forests of the region. Umesh PK’s works are noteworthy; Aerial view of dark red bushes by Prasad KP; Unrealistic study of the passage of light by Shaji Appukuttan; The serene essence of Sumesh Kumballur’s Night Tree; and philosophical depth in Sanam Narayanan’s mixed media artworks on rice paper canvas. Each creation reflects the artist’s deep engagement with the world.

Techniques and mediums used to make it opaque include pastel, graphite, watercolor wash, and gouache (paint made from pigment bound in water-soluble glue).

fusion of colors

The colors used are layered, overlapping and connected, creating visuals that engage the audience on many levels. Despite their unique styles and preferences, the artists’ imaginative freedom creates a dialogue between visual elements and underlying concepts. Collectively, this helps enrich the artistic discourse. For example, Prasad’s narrative-driven works attempt to highlight the interconnectedness of all natural elements, as he emphasizes the ancient belief of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, where all entities are manifestations of the same life energy.

Joydeep Acharjee reflects on the conflict between massive human structures and natural degradation in the environment in his north-eastern home-town. Sanket Viramgami combines aesthetic traditions, blending the miniature styles of the Persian school with elements of traditional Indian craft.

Sanam’s artwork displayed in Palette Gallery. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The artists have dived into the complexities of contemporary existence, exploring themes of beauty, kindness, cruelty, loneliness, contentment and loss. Amidst his deep contemplation, highlights are made of the peace of life’s quiet moments and the assurance that all turmoil eventually subsides.

At the Palette Art Gallery, 14 golf links; By June 1; 11 am to 7 pm

kriti komal