An artist at work during the painting workshop organised by Visual Artists Forum India at the Birla Public School yesterday. Pic: Kammutty V P / The Peninsula
DOHA: Showcasing some of the best Indian artists based in Qatar, a two-day art workshop and exhibition opened at Birla Public School, yesterday. The event by Visual Artists Forum India (VAFI) featured about 20 artists doing live paining on the theme art and dance of India.
“We have artists working on various medium using a variety of materials all coming together here,” said Dr Sreekumar Padmanabhan, President, VAFI.
“Visitors can see how much effort and dedication go into a work of art. Our artists work on different materials in various styles, and that also help people to understand about the variety of paintings. Some 18 artists are showcasing their works apart from working on a specific theme,” he told The Peninsula.
VAFI is a voluntary cultural organisation formed in Qatar to promote and develop artists of Indian origin living here. The group, which now has more than 30 artists, focuses on bringing forth Indians into the international art world.
The event brings forth some of the most exciting, emerging and award-winning works of art. Some unique works include clay on canvas, ceramic on canvas, paint work using knife, stone works on metal plates, charcoal works, among others. The event also features the unique Indian scroll painting and folk painting, called Phad painting. “We aim to build a platform for Indian artists, helping them to unlock their full potential and produce artworks of international quality. VAFI also tries to bring new venues for the upcoming artists, as it’s usually difficult to get noticed.”
“We conduct workshops in schools to try to inspire the young generation and help sharpen their skills. Most of the VAFI members are amateur artists except for a few professionals,” said Dr Padmanabhan, who is a physician by profession.
The two-day event concluding today will run from 9 am to 3 pm.
