SURAT, NOV 28: Dhruvkumar Shilpi and Raj Parmar's exhibition of metal sculptures and painting, at present exhibited at the Rotary Art Gallery, is a visual treat for city's art lovers.The six-day exhibition, inaugurated by Law Minister Hemant Chapatwala on Friday, displays Shilpi and Parmar's latest works. In all, 16 bronze sculptures and 15 paintings, on the theme of ``Passion'' and ``Motherhood'' are put on display, reflecting the inner world of the two young artists. The exhibition, open between 4 pm to 9 pm, will conclude on December 1.
``Our works are based on feelings, the things we have observed. First we realise it and feel its intensity before working on it. In a way, our works are a kind of inward journey,'' the artists said. Although Raj Kumar has participated in an exhibition organised by the Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy and worked in the famous Artist village, located in Saputara, this is her first exhibition, along with Shilpi, outside her home town. ``To me, this is the beginning. Painting is a hobby as well as a career,'' says Raj Parmar, who does not use brush, but paints with blade.
The 28-year-old Shilpi was inspired by his late father Manharbhai Shilpi, a great sculptor, and mother Jasuben Shilpi, who has created a milestone in the sculpture world. His work has a centre of emotions and passion. ``Life without emotion and feeling is simply impossible,'' says Shilpi, who did his G D sculpture in 1995.
With five awards to his credit, Shipli has held 13 solo exhibitions in Delhi, Mumbai, Vadodara and Ahmedabad. About his technique, Shilpi, who has created a new mode of art ``Etch Bronze Sculpture' inspired by the etching technique done in printing laboratories, says he prepares his sculpture in metallic form and then soaks them into different kind of concentrated acids to reveal an impression of etching, creating a new effect. He makes sure that certain pores and holes in his sculptures magnify the roughness of nostalgic images.
Form and beauty have one and the same definition to Shilpi who says he never had any liking for a smooth and simple life. He insists that every beautiful object is not always attractive. What he values is emotions and passion which is he has exhibited in his works.
Copyright © 1999 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.