Creativity in captivity

Creativity takes courage, said French artist Henri Matisse. Courage to continue, change and adapt as warranted by circumstances. Taking in view COVD-19 situation, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi (CLKA ) has moved its exhibitions online. One can view Art in the Times of COVID-19, an online drawing exhibition of two eminent city artists – Prem Singh and Viney Vadhera. Black and white, some 30 line drawings depict the physical, social and psychological dimensions of the pandemic.

“To initiate artistic dialogue and activities in this period of lockdown, we are organising a series of online exhibitions showcasing creative artwork representing various facets of COVID-19,” says Bheem Malhotra, chairperson, CLKA. One can view the works on the CLKA’s website. The artistic expression in black and white is as inspiring as driving home the point of social distancing and staying positive through the pandemic.

Organic journey

“There is no moral binding on an artist to create in every situation. But an artist certainly reflects upon the world one lives in. It is basically an urge for sharing one’s innermost feelings and concerns, whether beautiful or painful,” says Prem Singh. “It has been an organic journey, as we as artistes are inspired with what’s around us,” offers Viney Vadhera.

While part one of the online exhibition goes with the theme of COVID, part two will see more artists, more themes. “To keep the artistic expression alive in the times of lockdown, we shall have more artists from the city join in,” says Bheem Malhotra. One can also catch the exhibition on the social media pages of the Akademi. — Mona