Focus on simple techniques that can create splendor in art

Focus on simple techniques that can create splendor in art

T. Saravanan

Workshop highlights latest trends and methods in painting

MADURAI: A conglomeration of creative minds. Yes. That is how the painting and sculpting workshop, hosted under the banner `Canvas' by the art teachers of the Madura College Higher Secondary School, on Sunday appeared to be. Simple techniques that can create splendour in art were discussed at this workshop in detail. Right from oil painting to acrylic, from watercolour to poster colour, from clay sculpture to paper sculpture, the subjects shared at this forum were varied.

"It is not a one day affair. Similar training sessions and workshops are being organised every second Sundays at the school. Experts from different art fields are invited to share their information and expertise," says R. Siva, drawing master of MCHSS.

Increasing awareness of subjects that can fetch white-collar jobs has created a dent in the field of art. Even then, given an opportunity people are ready to let loose their creativity to quench their thirst that can give shape to their creative urge.

This was quite evident from the number of participants who thronged the venue to take part in the sharing exercise. "We get participants even from as far as Rajapalayam and also from neighbouring places like Theni. Every month around 20 to 25 persons attend the training session with art teachers constituting more than 25 per cent. Our prime job here is to educate students and brief them about opportunities available in pursuing painting as a subject of study," G. Ramanan, art teacher of MCHSS.

Clay sculpture

This month, S. Sridhar, a traditional potter from the village of Vilacheri, demonstrated his skills on clay sculpture. Deftly handling the clay, he brought out a model within seconds. "The clay texture is very important. It takes days to get the right mixture (clay), which lends itself to different shapes. Sometimes if the base material is under prepared the model develops cracks. Hence, much care should be taken while you prepare the base," says Mr. Sridhar.

For more than two generations into the pottery, Mr. Sridhar wishes to achieve something in the field of clay modelling. "Lack of exposure has cost us dear. There are many talented youngsters in our village who are capable of making clay models. If they are properly groomed they can reach greater heights," he says.

Besides sharing of information, the workshop also highlighted latest trends and techniques used in painting. "In metros, there are plenty of opportunities for people to get themselves updated but in cities like Madurai there are not many places where people can get such valid information. There are talented artists in the Temple City who have dumped scores of their collections in storerooms. We just provide a platform to expose their masterpieces," Mr. Siva says.

The duo, Mr. Siva and Mr. Ramanan, has created a healthy trend in the city. They also encourage and equip students to apply for reputed institutes of fashion technology and design.