'Monochrome' – From Clay To Craft’ and ‘Nayika’

Nandan Purkayastha at Art Musings

Mumbai-based Art Musings presents the debut solo exhibition of artist Nandan Purkayastha, entitled ‘'Monochrome' – From Clay To Craft’. His intricately detailed pen and ink works on paper are on view at the gallery. It is perhaps one of the most endearing visual celebrations of an ancient religious ceremony.

The series is based on the ancient custom of Durga Puja. The paintings that form part of the series offer a rendering to the process through which the purpose evolves. From preparation to packing, it's more a feeling and living of the art and harmony than religion!

The series takes one through the entire process from creation, devotion, celebration to immersion. It becomes a means of altering ‘dust thou art and unto dust thou returns’ by conveying how an idol can never be the means of exalting spirituality.

The idols of Durga are sculpted from clay and reach their end by dissolving into the river-beds, a yearly routine, time-bound. Yet, the lessons that one learns and the sentiments that one attaches, the belief one holds and the craft one creates, is timeless.

‘Nayika’ at Out of The Blue Art Gallery

A show revolving around the theme of ‘Nayika’ – female protagonists - by Vishal Sabley takes place at Out of The Blue Art Gallery, Mumbai. It’s an eclectic art space as part of a classy restaurant that also has been promoting affordable art for more than 10 years. The foodie's delight is also art lovers' paradise, having hosted several exhibitions, providing visual treat to the walk-in guests.

The current exhibition on view epitomizes what is best, most enchanting and enlivening in Indian culture, the Nayikas. The works deal with themes of feminine identity active strength coupled with angularity, yet was also supple by turns reflecting the many forms of feminine energy.

Artist Vishal Sabley's paintings are visual poetry with evocative yet grateful postures. They portray Shringara Rasa, the mood of love. They are shown is dramatic moods with soft and bright colors. They wear different hairstyles and their gazes various, and dressed in bright costumes wearing striking ornaments adorning the neck, waist and the head – a real visual and sensual treat.