Lucknow :
The year was 1957-58 when Dhiraj Choudhury was denied admission to the Lucknow College of Arts and Crafts by its Principal. In 2014 Choudhury, now an eminent painter, was invited to the same institution for an interaction with its current batch of students on Wednesday. As part of the ‘Art beyond Borders’ programme, 20 painters from India and Bangladesh have come together to initiate dialogue between people of the two countries through their art.
In 1957, Choudhury was in Nainital when he had opportunity to reach Lucknow in a vehicle deployed for former prime minister late Pt Jawaharlal Nehru’s public rally. He drew sketches at the rally and was profiled in media. His exhibition of portraits drawn on the streets of Nainital was inaugurated by V V Giri, then Governor of UP. Despite the fame, he was unable to study in Lucknow. The principal was not impressed by the feat before reaching Lucknow. Later, the first exhibition of State Museum in Lucknow in 1964 featured paintings from Chaudhury’s collection, he said, recalling his bitter-sweet connect with the city.
As present Master’s students observed techniques and mediums of various artists, Choudhury’s simple yet extravagant expression made an impact on them. Figurative painter Jatin Das explained to them the importance of sketching for enhancement of their painting skills.
“It’s the way you express your thoughts on canvas more than the technique you use, is the important lesson I am taking with me today,” shared Arun Kumar, a first-year MFA student. Chhitij Sahu, a 2nd year student said “it was a golden chance for us to meet the eminent artists right here on the campus. Their breezy brushwork and their brisk movements have inspired me.”
The art on glass and the colour flow technique of painting impressed the students with its close-to-life feel. “Their ideas have made an impression on not just the canvas but on our minds too and will stay with us for life,” said Aprajita Tripathi.
source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> City> Lucknow / TNN / October 30th, 2014