National Painting Camp "KALABHYA"

Name of the Department: Fine Arts

Name of the Event/Activity/Workshop/Seminar: “KALABHYA” National Painting Camp

Date: 25-30 April 2024

Venue: Srijan Hall, IIS (deemed to be University) Jaipur

No. of Participants: 10 Faculty members from Department of Fine Arts and 77 students

15 Contemporary Indian artists from all over India along with 10 faculty members of the Department of Fine Arts came together for the National Painting Camp 'Kalabhya', held in Srijan Hall at IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur. This camp was held between April 25 to April 30, 2024. All the participants and students were welcomed by Chancellor Dr. Ashok Gupta, Vice Chancellor Dr. T. N. Mathur, Registrar Dr. Raakhi Gupta, Advisor Prof. K.S. Sharma and Dean Arts & Social Sciences Dr. Ila Joshi. This proceeded as a platform for artists and students of fine arts field to interact, share ideas and explore the diverse forms of artistic expression.  

Each artist, imbued everyone with their unique vision and artistic expression, painted their individual styles and perspectives onto the canvas. From bold strokes of abstraction to intricate detailing. 

Sir Vidhyasagar Upadhyay presented theme of cosmology using subtle colors, texture, and tonal variation. Even though his works left untitled, it invites viewer’s reflection and interpretation. He builds the artwork through layers, possibly symbolizing the complexity and depth of life itself. His painting achieves a harmonious balance between rich colors, textures, and subtle tonal variations, creating a visually satisfying experience. 

Sir Samdar Singh Khangarot Sagar potrayed traditional Indian themes with a hint of miniature style to create intricate depictions of mythology. Wielding his miniature style like a master, conjuring up spellbindingly intricate depictions of mythological sagas that leave viewers utterly awestruck and entranced. 

Ma’am Anjani Reddy conveyed innocence of ladies dressed in colorful, traditional Indian attire. Her paintings showcased femininity and cultural history with a hint of warmth and elegance.  She captures not just the physical heat and vibrancy of the season, but also the cultural spirit and youthful energy that resonates within it.  

Sir K.K. Gandhi captured the scenic beauty of the Himalayan range, bringing a sense of freshness to its landscapes. Revealing the serene atmosphere of the Himalayas, epitomizing the spiritual core of Buddhism. The gentle hues of blue and green beautifully evoke the serene atmosphere of the Himalayas. 

Moving further, Sir Anup Kumar Chand worked on emotional connection with nature, focusing on the conservation of wildlife, particularly tigers and their natural habitat. His paintings seem to evoke a deep appreciation for the nature and the beauty of our environment. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of protecting wildlife, particularly tigers, which might be endangered species. His art highlights the delicate relationship between humans and the natural world, urging us to find a harmonious coexistence. 

Sir Ummendra Pratap Singh thoughtfully incorporated the symbol of the pot, signifying the preservation of Indian culture and civilization. The pot acts as a container, holding and safeguarding the essence of tradition and heritage. By incorporating negative space, he suggested that cultural progress and growth can coexist with a strong foundation in tradition. The empty space allows room for new ideas and development while maintaining the core values. 

Sir Gourishankar Soni draws inspiration from his immediate surroundings, focusing on subjects that often go unnoticed in everyday life. His artwork reflects a unique perspective, where ordinary scenes are elevated through creative composition.  creative spirit is fueled by the trivial details of everyday life, transforming the mundane into extraordinary masterpieces. With a keen eye for the overlooked, he unveils hidden treasures within his surroundings, infusing each piece with a distinctive perspective that transcends the ordinary. 

Sir Tapan Dash seamlessly blends abstraction and figurative ideology, using bold lines to convey a strong sense of self-expression. With the use of abstract forms and personal symbolism he creates a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of his inner world. He has developed a distinct voice within the artistic practice, influenced by various artistic movements and ideologies. 

Sir Lalit Sharma intricately depicted the architecture, streets, and lakes of Udaipur, bringing to life the vibrant essence of this historic city. He creates captivating works that celebrate the beauty and spirit of Udaipur, blending tradition with contemporary elements. His art likely offers a unique and insightful perspective of this historic city. 

 Sir Manas Ranjan Jena defined abstract shapes, symbols drawn from ancient iconography, divine symbols such as the lotus evoke the very essence of spirituality that is set against a richly varied backdrop that seamlessly blends.  In one of his tranquil portrayal, Mata Anjani is captured in serene meditation amidst nature alongside Lord Hanuman, embodying an eternal connection between mother and child. 

Sir Pranam Singh worked with figurative art, portraying Indian women in a variety of moods and emotions. He evoked a strong connection to the rich tapestry of Indian cultural practices and the spirit of festivity. He highlighted the traditional attire, symbolic elements, and vibrant colors that are integral to many Indian celebrations. 

Sir Abbas Batliwala painted figures with expressive shell-like eyes, showcasing the resilience and serenity of rural communities. Each stroke is a testament to the invincible spirit and tranquil resilience of these communities. His paintings serve as windows into the world forgotten by many, where the strength and serenity of rural life shine forth with unparalleled brilliance, leaving beholders enraptured by their timeless beauty. 

Sir Shail Choyal exhibited intricate motifs and vibrant colors within contemporary outlook. He showcased his mastery with fine lines, floral motifs, and detailed jewelry adorning the figures. The use of vibrant minerals and natural dyes creates a dazzling visual experience. Gold and silver embellishments further enhance the richness in his paintings. 

Sir Sukanta Das represented the theme of ‘Sachitanand’, with a focus on the Krishna avatar of Vishnu. The figures in his paintings have a calm and meditative expression, reflecting the blissful state of Sachitanand. His work invites viewers to contemplate the deeper spiritual meaning within the traditional iconography. 

Dr. Sunil Kumar Vishwakarma Sir featured bold strokes and detailed figurative forms, vividly immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi. He depicted the essence of divinity in a moment of mythical combining. Use of vibrant colors gives fervor of the Varanasi in his artworks.   

Ms. Manika Sharma worked on the street life, natural and man-made elements. Her canvases burst forth with vibrant hues and exuberant elements, infusing each stroke with a radiant energy that uplifts the soul and sparks joy in the hearts of all who behold them. Through her artistry, she beckons viewers to embrace the boundless beauty and infectious positivity that infuse every corner of our daily existence, igniting a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary in the ordinary. 

Ms. Dimple Dalal worked with textures created using fabric, charcoal and colors, inviting viewers to explore her work on a sensory level. With layers of symbolism and enigmatic meaning, she lays her soul in her profound work meant to challenge and intrigue the viewer.  

Dr. Vagish Sharma showcased traditional iconography with a rustic aesthetic, showcasing elegant women in serene, strong scenes, highlighting simplicity and the refined presence of women in various cultural contexts.  

Dr. Ujjvala M. Tiwari depicted the beauty of nature, capturing its changing moods and its ability to be calm and wild, this also delves into the whimsical aspects of nature's character. The dynamic nature of sandstorms vividly portrays the sheer speed and power of natural forces, unveiling the intricate dance between sand and wind. 

Mr. Vinod Nagar’s painting featured bird personifying the concept of "udaan," or flight. He used  the astrological wheel as a backdrop, possibly signifying the cyclical nature of life and the connection between the earthly and celestial realms. 

Ms. Ekta Sharma used diverse range of symbols and motifs to express her emotions and spiritual thoughts, blending abstract expression with symbolic imagery. Bold hues seamlessly shift into softer tones, while diverse shapes and lines invite a voyage into the subconscious, unveiling the profound essence of her sentiment.  

Dr. Giriraj Sharma explored self-reflection and fantasy, focusing on the inner workings of the human mind. With a masterful touch, he paints intricate tapestries of thought and emotion, using a palette of subtle hues to weave a mesmerizing spell that encourages profound contemplation of life's most ordinary moments, inviting viewers to transcend the mundane and embrace the magic that resides within the whispers of existence. 

Ms. Sheetal Chitlangiya composed fantasy and daily life, featuring simplistic forms, vibrant colors and intricate patterns using mix media techniques, applied in layers for distinctive effects. Through her mastery of mixed media techniques, she unveils a breathtaking array of textures and effects that captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression on all who behold her incomparable artistry. 

Mr. Shwet Goel’s artworks represented mythical realm of Radha Krishna, portraying their divine connection highlighting Shringar Rasa. The essence of Sringar Rasa is delicately captured, evoking a profound sense of harmony and equilibrium. He skillfully merges grand architectural elements with a miniature portrayal of Nayak Nayika. 

Ms. Jyoti Jalan used detailed techniques like stippling, doodling, and crosshatching to explore nature and depiction of self, creating depth and texture. Her artwork reflects inner peace, personal connection and a meditative quality, inviting viewers to contemplate balance and harmony. 

The artists were also exposed to a diverse range of cultural experiences. First, a visit was made to Ateetraga, a private collection of ancient artifacts housed by Mr. Vinay Sharma, a renowned printmaker.  A trip to Safari Fashions was made, an export house factory, where the intricate world of block printing was explored. They all visited the Jaipur Centre for Culture & Arts gallery, where a group exhibition was being held. The group also had the opportunity to view a collection of paintings at the private gallery of Mr. Shwet Goel.

Through interactions with well-known artists, students of BFA and MFA were inspired and motivated to pursue their career in painting by this exposure. Students were really involved at the national painting camp, assisting each artist and learning the intricacies of color application, compositional styles, and subject matter. This firsthand learning makes them aware about the use of variety of tools like brushes, brayers, and spatulas. Through this comprehensive experience, they gained practical skills that are crucial for their future as painters, in addition to an enhanced understanding.