Sabavala: Unfortunately, I have not seen his works. Sometimes the novelty of seeing something new in art is exciting, but it has to have substance and depth. Works should not be too clever for that takes away from the seriousness of the subject.
Komu: I could not agree more. However, by now one has enough exposure to recognise when an artist is doing something just for the sake of keeping up with trends and when he or she is really committed to the exploration of new media and contemporary themes.
Sabavala: I would agree with you that a generation (of artists) must reflect its time. With the advent of the computer age, the young generation is witnessing a revolution. I am happy to appreciate it from the sidelines as a spectator, since at my age I neither have the time nor the inclination to get involved in new media. I do feel that there are nuances of painting that I am yet to explore and discover. I would need much more time to study the new methods before I begin to practice.
Komu: The challenges of your generation were also different. The nation was just emerging then and there was a need to establish a feeling of longevity and consistency—an art that will last. In our times, things are ephemeral. Change is the only constant and we must address that through our art.
We must take references from our own time though one may explore mediums that are varied. Though many in my generation have been exploring fibre glass, I concern myself with older materials like wood and metal for my sculptures. I use them in a very contemporary context.
... contd.