A ‘new’ artform inspired by nature

Thiruvananthapuram: The beginning of Shibu Shiv Ram’s painting series titled ‘Agnostic Geometry’ was from his childhood curiosity regarding the existence of human senses. Years after pursuing art and becoming an art teacher at Cotton Hill Girls Higher Secondary School in the city, the feeling only strengthened enough to be expressed through his own medium.“Through the 35 paintings here, I have attempted to experiment with this theme of whether the human-centred reality can really be regarded as the absolute truth. If the other creatures perceive reality in a different way, the human perception is indeed relative. These works cannot be compartmentalized into being completely surrealistic or abstract as I have tried to bring in a new form altogether drawing inspiration from nature,” said the artist.With life-like textures, unique hues and formless shapes, Ram’s paintings are eye-catching, luring the audience to make their own interpretations. The students who visited were in awe of the uniqueness of the concept and of the talent of their teacher. “They are really not ready to understand such complicated themes and styles but I am glad they enjoyed it. It is uncommon for our kids to show a higher interest as our education system does not place much importance on art as a whole. Efforts should be made to develop varied interests in a child rather than restricting them to focus on academics. I have primarily taught them the ways to relish art and how to distinguish various styles and techniques. I urge them to practice consistently and also provide extra classes for those who are artistically inclined,” says Ram who has been working at Cotton Hill for the past 16 years.The expo, being held at Alliance Francaise, will conclude on May 4.
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