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Simply Buddha
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Decorative and repetitive, Karma Tenrab’s paintings still manage to catch the eye
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PLAIN AND SIMPLE Karma’s paintings are essentially flat
The artist from Sikkim is no more than twenty-eight years but asserts that he has seen unmitigated suffering in his personal life.
He particularly recalls his days as an art student at M.S. University, Baroda, when he was confronted with his own inner contradictions and confusion.
“I don’t really believe art can be taught,” says Karma Tenrab Agnihotri, who now spends time in Sikkim and among tribals in West Bengal (near Shantiniketan). “Undoubtedly, there were some very good teachers at the M.S. University and the atmosphere too was not uncongenial. You could learn some techniques and methods in art classes, but then, there were days when I spent my time on the footpaths and roamed like a madman…Eventually, I left Baroda discontinuing my studies there.”
Karma’s paintings were on display in his recently concluded solo exhibition titled “The Eternal Seeker” at Mahua Art Gallery. At first glance, they appeared simplistic – taking on the icon of Buddha as seen in a typical meditative posture. Slowly, they caught the viewer’s attention thanks to the pleasing colours, plainness of the subject and uncomplicated construct.
Karma’s paintings are essentially flat, hints of shadows or perspective being absent in almost all the works. The Enlightened One is no more than a silhouette - some would call it a ‘cutout’ - and has none of his physical features detailed or delineated. One finds a variety of decorative elements in the images: curling creepers, passing clouds, flowing robes, flying birds, and so on.
“The images may seem to be repetitive,” agreed Karma. “But each painting evolved on its own, quite naturally. I am not the kind of artist to set up half a dozen canvases at the same time… What Buddha means to me is beyond fascination. Not a mere display of content we are familiar with, but rather a feeling, a visual encounter, a sensual experience… I am not attached to the icon. I believe firmly in the present, and have no clue how my works will turn out to be, in future.”
GIRIDHAR KHASNIS
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