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TANJORE
PAINTINGS IN CHENNAI
L.Vijayakumar, an expert in Tanjore Paintings and owner
of Gurubaran Tanjore Art Gallery, speaks about what makes
these traditional paintings the preferred choice of Chennaiites.
What makes Tanjore paintings unique?
It is one of the oldest forms of art. Traditional paintings have
found a special place right from the period of the Chola dynasty.
The paintings, adorned with gold foil, are very attractive. And
it does not demand any special training to understand the artwork.
Moreover, these paintings are part of our lifestyle. They also reinforce
the identity of people from Tamil Nadu.
Which is the most popular theme for Tanjore
paintings?
The most popular theme is Lord Krishna in various avatars
(forms). This is because Lord Krishna is the most liked God with
the people of Tamil Nadu.
What is the time required to complete such
a painting?
For a painting of normal size, it takes a maximum of seven days.
Besides the sketch, the paintings have to be framed in pure teakwood
and varnished to make it more attractive and eye-catching.
What has been the demand for Tanjore paintings
in Chennai?
The demand for Tanjore paintings has been consistently good. The
paintings are highly valued and are passed on from one generation
to another. The reason for this is, the paintings are not easily
spoilt and people often keep them in their pooja rooms and pray.
The various forms of God occupy a permanent place in the minds of
people, because every picture has life. This is possible only if
the artists totally involve themselves while painting. Moreover,
the paintings are the best kind of gifts one can give for any auspicious
occasion.
Why are there not many exhibitions of Tanjore
paintings in Chennai?
Unlike contemporary paintings, no exclusive exhibitions are required
for Tanjore Paintings, because they have already created a niche
among the art lovers. Tanjore paintings attract everyone, irrespective
of age and are even preferred by foreigners. Contemporary paintings
confuse people. It requires some sort of interaction between the
artist and clients to know and understand the meaning of the abstraction,
so exhibitions help for them.
What is the basic expectation of customers?
Customers expect quality and perfection. They come with some preconceived
notion about the forms, background colour and shape and pick up
a painting that fulfills all these expectations.
Do budding artists in Chennai prefer working
in Tanjore paintings?
Young artists always try to avoid Tanjore paintings, because it
is taxing. If they take up contemporary painting, they earn quick
money. Many artists prefer to become cinema art directors, for the
fame ascribed to it. As far as we are concerned, we are not known
to the outside world, but are very popular with our customers. Some
artists even enter the hoarding business and make quick money. Unless
there is full commitment, the numbers will gradually diminish.
What is your advice to young artists?
Young artists must take up Tanjore paintings as their profession.
The business has good scope for the future. By taking this as their
profession, artists can support at least five to six families who
help them in the trade. Learning the art is not very difficult.
It just requires some patience. The artists must also be flexible
to customers and always fulfill their needs and choice.
Address: Gurubaran Tanjore Art Gallery, # 7, R.K.Mutt
Road, Mylapore,
Chennai 600 004.
Phone: 494 1017.
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