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Creativity in clay
arty Anju Kumar’s work
Her fingers create magic with clay. A pioneer in clay pottery Anju Kumar of ‘Anmol Creations’, is showcasing a neo modern contemporary line during her ongoing exhibition. It has been a long journey in art for Kumar. She began by designing eighty models, but this she says would have been impossible without the financial support of her family. These models were put on display at an exhibition at the Blind Relief Association. Her works comprised coloured pottery which was a runaway success and it “set the ball rolling”.
Kumar uses red , black and Yamuna clay in her designs; they are mixed and powdered in different constituents. Eventually the fine powder is kneaded, decorated with hand-engravings and left to dry.
The whole procedure takes around 25 days. Her products are marked by their ‘earthy appeal’ and eco-friendly composition.
Inspiration for Kumar happens somewhere in the “middle of the night, when I’m entirely on my own.” Her works are reflective of Indian textures and she uses jute and cane but the motifs are often inspired by African tribal art. Kumar is also enthralled by the works of M.F. Hussain.
This year, her exhibition, on till October 21 at the Blind School Association, Lodhi Road, will be an absolute break from earlier patterns, says Kumar.
Using angular shapes, highlighted with criss-cross detailing and evolved texture techniques, she creates vases, lamps, planters, water bodies and elements of artistic value for stylish homes and offices. Her emulation of stone art in clay is reminiscent of the sandy hues of Dholpur and the white sheen of Makrana marble. The idols of Buddha and Ganesha lend a meditative air to her body of work.
Kumar observes that Indians are still governed by a ‘herd mentality’ while choosing works of art. Nevertheless, she says, “When I began I was told that people would not buy mud; but gradually there has been a change in attitude towards art in the Indian context.”.
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