Artists are timeless,” says Atila Schdoeder at the premier of his exhibition Journey Of the Soul held at the Windsor Sheraton. From Sombor in Yugoslavia, Atila, many years ago, was staying in a ‘math’ in North India where he was exposed to a large expanse of spirituality. Four years ago, he returned to India once again and was working with a gallery in Bangalore dealing in Western Art. His inclination to express himself in painting came to the fore at a group exhibition where his work was much admired among many professionals.
Atila returned to Sombor within a few months in Bangalore and has since been on a progressive journey.
Over a tete-a-tete he spoke about his spiritual journey beginning quite early in life. “It’s not the body one has to think of, it’s the soul,” he says.
“Knowledge is expressed in my work. An artist exposes an intimate part of himself but first one has to establish trust within oneself, only then can you share. A certain longing, a vague sensation.. the moment you suppress it, you’re unhappy. I’ve passed through one door. When very young, I realised that our feelings direct us. Unlike animals we have intrusions, many answers and you want the right one. The mantra to satisfaction is enjoy the ‘now’, he adds.
According to Atila, the 16 pieces of art work on exhibit are titled Genesis, Soul Substance, Aham Brahnasmi, Pulsating of the Soul, Celestial Sunset, among others. “It’s my projection of a higher identity,” he explains.
Shades of blue dominate his palette but every colour has it’s vibrancy and frequency. Dr L Subramanium, who inaugurated the exhibition, commended the works as original and creative. Artists Shirley Mathew and Milind Nayak found some works simulating while Ruby and Imitaz claimed it’s easy interpretation and bold work.
“When I visually see the intricacy of the works, I’m so pleasantly surprised. It’s not just casual strokes, you can see the involvement,” says Raghava, an artist.
The exhibition is on at Welcome Art Gallery till May 21. Call: 984542079.