Kinnal works brighten 'Drushya Kavya' expo

Displaying more than 300 artworks, including folk artworks like Kinnal, Kalamkari, along with rich modern paintings of students, was a great way chosen by Mahalasa School of Art to celebrate its annual day here on Monday.

Mohan Kumar, folk art teacher said there were around 24 Kinnal art works kept for display in the three-day exhibition ‘Drushya Kavya’.

“We select more skilled students for this art form. Here, art works are prepared using wood, chalk powder and gum. A silver colour metal leaf has been embossed and coloured to get the output. To prepare one art work, it needs around 15 days,” he said.

There were around 22 Mysuru style art works made out of either Tanjavoor leaf or Mysuru leaf. The art teacher said that few of them may even cost Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 in market. Interestingly, for the occasion mementoes were also prepared using Kinnal art, which represented fishing and Yakshagana of coastal Karnataka.

The landscapes drawn by the students under the guidance of senior teacher Sayyed Asif Ali during a art camp organised at Kollur, attracted the onlookers. Renowned artist Dinesh Holla commented that students have done well.

Mastery comes in water colour only with practice. These paintings are not flat, there is 3D effect which makes them lively, he said. Around 23 painting which have won various awards in National-level were also on display. 

Inaugurating the expo, Superintendent of Police Dr Sharanappa said the institution may collaborate with other renowned institutions of the State and outside to explore more opportunities.

Along with five year course, short term courses or crash courses may help for those are interested in art. There is no need to have inborn talent, but students should have thirst of achieving, he said.

District Kannada Sahitya Parishat President Pradeep Kumar Kalkura said one can surely depend on art, provided proper marketing.

These art works are of international quality. Forums can be provided during Karavali Utsava, Da- sara, religious rituals like Brahmakalashotsava. The idea of ‘Chitra Santhe’ should be continued in international-level.