WHEN NATURE GETS A TOUCH OF CHARCOAL
Born and brought up in Kolkata, Pushpa Bagrodia’s world belongs to nature and the silent ripples of evolution of flowers and plants and a few riverine studies
The roots of aesthetics and creativity are in her genes. Known for her water washes, artist Pushpa Bagrodia credits her mother, a painter who was also inclined towards embroidery, to have inculcated the habit of sketching and other art forms along with a sharp aesthetic sense. The septuagenarian artist’s interest lies in everything that has a creative edge to it. She loves the technique of water wash paintings which fascinates her no ends. Born and brought up in Kolkata, Bagrodia’s world belongs to nature and the silent ripples of evolution of flowers and plants and a few riverine studies. At heart, she is very much a naturalist and her works reflect the very epitome of her quest to bridge the East and West, the traditional and contemporary.
Presently, she is exhibiting her show Shwet Shyam at The Harrington Arts Centre, Ho Chi Minh Sarani in Kolkata
The artist in conversation with the Asian Age:
Is it the first time that you have experimented with charcoal?
This is my maiden experiment and showing of charcoal works. I am both excited and nervous as it is happening in my city, Kolkata. However, I must admit that it was challenging to work with the medium but I enjoyed it tremendously!
Why have you named the show, Shwet- Shyam?
The dominating theme in the exhibition
is nature and its myriad forms. The black and white hues, done with charcoal on paper, create a distinguished contrast. The ability to bring softness and serenity to an otherwise harsh medium makes her works special.
We only get to see nature in your works? Have you ever thought of exploring other subjects?
I just love the softness, serenity and positive vibrations nature offers as also its ability to steadfastly remain erect even under the most destructive forces. Archaeological subjects too interest me and I have painted a few temples too but have not delved in it enough to do a show.
Your favourite medium to express yourself…
Water wash and charcoal
Over the last three decades that you have been a part of the art fraternity, have you witnessed a change in the art scene, in India or globally?
Indian art, today, has got influenced by Western art. Indian artists have turned to nontraditional art
forms and materials under the influence of Western art. From realistic to abstraction, Indian art clearly shows the influence of the West.
Will art fairs organised across the country help in bringing art closer to the common man?
Such art fairs are attended only by art- lovers. For the common man to take time out of their daily schedule is something which I feel is not going to happen.
How acceptable is Indian art on global platform?
Old artworks, antiques and miniature art are popular globally. With the growth of art commerce, a number of Western curators have joined hands with Indian artists, creating activities and awareness about their works. Moreover, contemporary artists settled abroad have gained recognition and popularity through their works in the West.
Favourite all- time artists...
Rembrandt, Michaelangelo, Indra Dugar, Ramananda Bandopadhyay and Sudip Roy.