Bounded by a rustic charm

CHENNAI: For most of us, art might mean nothing but a bunch of paintings that have captured landscapes, sunrise or pretty flowers. We have been conditioned to believe that art is something that comes across as beautiful, fresh and new. However, K Vikram Varghese, in his current series, Windows and Doors, which is on display at Gallery Sri Parvati, has done the unusual. He has beautifully captured the rustic charm of the narrow, almost-deserted lanes of Kolkata, the minute details of the Gingee Fort, and the unpolished north Chennai. His current series focuses on  doors and windows that have begun to totter and appear rickety. The attention to detail is extraordinary and makes his works look believable.Talking to City Express, Vikram says, “I visited three places — Kolkata, Gingee Fort, and North Chennai. During my visit, I studied these places. I also took photographs so that later I could use my imagination and experiment with it a little.”Vikram's paintings are very detailed and speak volumes about his hold on the subject. While discussing about his intricate art works, he says, “I have focussed on the intricate details in my paintings. I have texturised them a little to bring out the ruggedness of the structures and forms. The hues and shades of colours are subdued because the idea is to bring out the old-world charm. However,  if you have noticed the doors and windows, they are a little more brighter. Also, the texturisation has helped me portray the beauty of the worn out paints, and the half-broken exposed bricks in the buildings.” The reason behind this realistic artwork is Vikram's research, which he claims he always does before starting off on a new theme. He studies, photographs, recomposes and re-edits the places he visits. And then uses his imagination to recreate the photographed landscape, portrait, or building.Vikram's current series is a solo show and has a total of 37 paintings. He has used water colours, pen and ink for his works. (The exhibition is on till Feb 3 at Gallery Sri Parvati, 28/160, Eldams Road, Alwarpet. For details, call 24353341)