5 Simple Drawings of Ganesha for Ganesh Chaturthi

Wishing Everyone A Blessed Ganesha Chaturthi!

May the Lord remove all the obstacles that one has to face or rather may the obstacles fall short against your strength. May all these hurdles be crossed with the least effort and May all that one wishes which doesn't hurt or harm others be rewarded ;)

I am sharing with you the Ganesha paintings and Sketches I have created since the past few years. Most of them have been sold since Ganesha is a much wanted companion :)

Firstly, Lord Ganesha (Ganesh/Ganapati/Vinayaka/Vigneshwara) or the elephant deity is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is revered as the remover of obstacles in life, patron of arts and science & the symbolic epitome of intellect and wisdom. Every ritual starts by honoring him. Here's a video to know something more about him.

Lord Ganesha Video


Secondly, I would like to share 5 simple Ganesha drawings I created yesterday afternoon. They are all ATCs (Artist Trading Cards). They are simple and can be tried by anyone for that matter. They will also look good on postcards, you can create some for Diwali and send it to your family and friends. You can add a bit of color to it by adding sequins, stones, glitters, sparkles etc. I wanted them simple for now.

ATCs, 2.5x3.5 inches, fineliners and sketch pens on Distemper green chartpaper

All of it to together...so how do you like it? 

We are so used to seeing Ganeshas in so many different forms all over the net and everywhere else that even when you try to do something singular, you end up feeling I have seen this somewhere (what I am feeling now for these skecthes!...I love them all the same)

Now for the Ganeshas that I have so far created, taking time and loving each one...I have lined them below...Take a look :)

ATC

Embellished Ganesha on acrylic pad

The same design on glass. I wanted to see how it would look on glass. 

Which one do you think is better?

 Embellished Ganeshas in Red and Yellow gold

*embellished with kundan stones and sequins*

Abstract Ganeshas in Red and Blue

*the red painting is embellished with a black crystal*

5x5inch gallery wrapped canvas, 
Mixed Media with crystals, kundan stones, sequins etc

Abstract Ganesha embellished with crystals

Kerala Mural Ganesha

*scientific symbol of Lord Ganesha is discussed here*

ATCs can not be sold, only swapped - info for those who aren't aware of it. All these Ganeshas except for the last two, are sold. The most recent one which I sold in Sankalp in Kochi and bought by an ardent young buyer, a school boy is here. That I felt was an honour !

I would also like to share something that I saw in FB I believe and I saved it to my system as the significance is immense.

Source: FB

click on the images to catch a larger view

Hope you enjoyed this post. Please do leave a comment and thank you for your visit and your time :)

Linking it to Eva & Kristin's PPF.

Please do not use/reproduce the content (words as well as images) without the written consent of the author.

Twilight & Chinese Painting

"If in the twilight of memory we should meet once more, 

we shall speak again together and you shall sing to  me a deeper song."

-Khalil Gibran

Twilight - 9x12in, 

Acrylics on Cotton canvas

"Twilight" is from my earlier series. If you have been following my blog, by now you would have noticed that I love warm colors...bright colors that make one alive and happy. I am a person who can not place a finger on one color and say that 'that's my favourite!' but when painting I tend to choose bright colors. I have something different with regard to texture and patterns too. You can see the other paintings in the posts here and here.

Not only colours, I can not be biased in the matters of art as well. I love all kinds of art...varied genres. I have been trying Chinese painting time and again. I love the lucidity and simplicity it projects; all the same there's an inherent skill that one requires to bring out that simplicity. It is not as easy as it looks! 

I don't have the traditional Chinese brushes, the ones I have used are synthetic ones on acrylic pad. 

You can name it as a small DIY, Can't you? :)

Watercolor and pen

So what do you think??? Do leave your comments and Thanks for taking your time and dropping by :)

In case you wish to own any piece or wish to custom order or simply chat & share...do drop a mail to mail.huesnshades@gmail.com. 

Linking to Eva and Kristin's weekly PPF which inspires us artists a lot and binds us together !!!

Please do spare a few moments!!! As part of feedback It would be really helpful for me if you could just let me know the answers to the below mentioned queries:

1. What according to you is the best thing about Hues n Shades (HnS)?

2. What is it that needs improvement?

3. What would you like to see more in HnS?

Please do not use/reproduce the content (words as well as images) without the written consent of the author.

An Interview With Sekhar Roy - Meet An Artist

Hello Friends

Today, it's an interview special...and the artist featured is one of the most renowned contemporary artists particularly with regard to Indian mythology. He is from the rich artistic heritage of Kolkata. A self-taught artist who has established his name and his signature style without a doubt. His works can be found in Fine Art America, Indian Art Collectors and the other prestigious art platforms. He has also exhibited in prominent galleries and exhibitions in India and abroad. Let me introduce - Sekhar Roy (SR)!

Sekharji, Let me begin by once again confessing that I LOVE your Krishna, Radha, Romantic Couple, Gopiyan series as well as your Ganeshas and Durga. I think I left out nothing!!! I am extremely glad to have you here in Hues n Shades.

HnS:  Give us a brief background about yourself (Education, family, work) When did your artistic journey begin? What/who was your inspiration?

SR: I am the youngest among my other siblings. I was born in Bangladesh in 1973. We came to India when I was only 6 years old. Due to several political and economical turmoil of those days, we were bound to be the immigrants and settled in India. There was a lot of struggle we have faced during those days but my family specially my mother supported me a lot to establish my career to become an artist. Unfortunately, I lost my mother so early. Somehow I managed to maintain and have been trying to stable my feet on the ground as an artist. I got married and have one daughter. I am getting a full support from them. They are always pushing me up by their criticism and enthusiasm. I am a self taught artist enriching my qualities through the day to day life. Academically I am graduated in commerce.

As a self taught artist, the journey was not so smooth sailing. At the beginning, each and everyone wanted to know that from which art collage I passed out. It was as embarrassing as I had no answer except to show my works only. But I overcome and conquer that awkward situation and establish my recognition through my works.

HnS:  My observation after going through your works is that it is mythology that has inspired you the most. Am I right when I say that? Most of your works revolve around Lord Krishna. Any specific reason?

SR: I started my journey through my art works with not only the mythological characters but some other aspects of the social issues were also had a great importance. Gradually, shifted towards this particular field of Indian mythology. Love, emotion, sensitivity all these soft words have a great effect on me. I realize that all the hardness, brutality; cruelty can be removed by those soft feelings. This is why thousand years ago the Indian philosophers had emphasised on those issues and wrote epics on the ground of love. Love between Rama & Sita, Radha & Krishna, Shiva & Parvati and so on. I have chosen firstly the Krishna as I find the intellect and passion, the battle and emotion, the manliness and effeminacy, simultaneously exist in one character. So I liked him most. 

HnS:   You have a signature style with bold & distinct strokes and bright colours with which one can immediately associate your name, also there is the light and dark shading giving the central characters a glow…How did you develop your style? Was that intentional or something that accidentally happened? 

SR: Human is the best creation of the creator. The mixture of bravery & intellect by which they have approached and established their supremacy among others. This is my observation and I always put my strokes very distinctively and boldly to highlight the God’s best creation. By nature every human being is a combination of vibrant colours. It means the different shades of different moods. My intention is always to make them happy. That is why I like to use the bright colours to depict their happiness. 

HnS:  Out of all the art, I saw a solo Jesus Christ, what inspired you to paint the Lord? (Thanks for sending another picture as well)

SR: I have experimented on different subjects when I was going through a book on Jesus Christ’s life, it had a great impact on me and I was totally involved in that. I drew a lot of paintings on him. All except this one were collected by the collectors and galleries. I have a plan to make another series on him recently. 

HnS:   Kolkata being artistically a rich place with places like Kumartuli, Kalighat, Shantiniketan and many a famous artists like Abanindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy and the whole Bengal School of Art… How much do you think it has influenced you?

SR: Kolkata is not my birthplace but Kolkata has given me the all. I must appreciate the surroundings where I grew up and still growing. It is not only the Kumartuli, Kalighat but every corner of Kolkata has a great influence on me. Kolkata with its (beauty, history, love & acceptance, tolerance passion, politics, dirt and pollution, busyness, ups and downs) everything has been making my personality since my childhood. I feel very privileged to be an artist from the place of Abanindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy and so many great artists but I always try to build a new milestone with my works.

HnS:  Have you painted any other subjects other than mythology? Would you like to share a couple of pictures with us?

SR: I have experimented a lot on other subjects. Few of them are with me. I want to share some of them. 

HnS:  Which is your preferred medium? How long do you take to finish your big frames (eg: 42”x42” Romatic Couple or 48”x54” Ganesha) ?

SR: My preferred medium is Acrylic. Generally I take not much time to finish a big frame like Ganesha (48”x54”). It took maximum three days. But, sometimes it takes time as it depends on mood & circumstances. 

HnS:   Apart from painting, what are your other hobbies?

SR: Watching Movies, reading books and listening instrumental music (sanai, & flute) and sometimes vocals also. 

HnS:  Out of curiosity, are you often confused with the 1957 born another brilliant artist from your State with the same name? How do you feel about it?

SR: No there is no problem from my side due to this namesake issue. But sometimes people got confused earlier. Now this problem is also solved as I have established my style which is totally different from him. I respect him a lot as he is quiet senior artist than me. 

HnS:   Your words of inspiration/advice to the artists out there.

SR: I always believe in achievement and self satisfaction. Everybody should have the confidence on their ability and must know their own uncomfortable zone.

HnS:   I am lucky that I have had the opportunity to see some of your works in person in Dubai at two occasions - Arabian Ranches Golf Club by Art Zest and at Numaish, The Address Hotel. Where all have exhibited your work? (mention the most successful places)

SR: All the shows organized by Artzest, Artfiesta and personal galleries are successful. Some personal collectors also collect my works directly from me. My works are always appreciated by art lovers in Dubai.

HnS: Please share with our art enthusiasts any art tip that has helped you a lot. (that would help to improve one's art)

SR: If you are an artist, you should be emotional but intellectual, rational but sensitive, tolerant but not judgmental.

Thank you Sekharji for taking out your valuable time and spending it with us. Hope you enjoyed it as well as :)

And dear readers, for those who are interested in his art you can always contact him -
email id: rupsekhars1973@gmail.com 
mobile no.: +919831143548
http://www.indianartcollectors.com/artist/SekharRoy
http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/sekhar-roy.html

Dear friends, hope you enjoyed reading about Sekhar Roy. Thanks for visiting Hues n Shades. Please do leave your comments; it's the most valued :)

You can read about Featured artists here.


Please note: All the images are copyright of Sekhar Roy. Please do not use it without prior consent from the artist. Please contact the artist for the same. Thanks a lot for honouring the works of the artists.

Please do not use/reproduce the content (words as well as images) without the written consent of the author.

Happy Independence Day!

"Long years ago, we made a tryst with destiny and now the time comes when we shall redeem our pledge... At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.'" - Jawaharlal Nehru

"One individual may die for an idea; but that idea will, after his death, incarnate itself in a thousand lives. That is how the wheel of evolution moves on and the ideas and dreams of one nation are bequeathed to the next." - Subhash Chandra Bose

"If yet your blood does not rage, then it is water that flows in your veins. For what is the flush of youth, if it is not of service to the motherland." - Chandra Shekhar Azad

"Mother, I bow to thee! Rich with thy hurrying streams, Bright with orchard gleams, Cool with thy winds of delight, Green fields waving , Mother of might, Mother free. Glory of moonlight dreams, Over thy branches and lordly streams, Clad in thy blossoming trees, Mother, giver of ease, Laughing low and sweet! Mother I kiss thy feet, Speaker sweet and low! Mother, to thee I bow." - Bankim Chandra Chaterjee

"Even if I have to face death a thousand times for 

The sake of my Motherland, I shall not be sorry. 

Oh Lord! Grant me a hundred births in India. 

But grant me this, too, that each time I may give up 

My life in the service of the Motherland." - Ram Prasad Bismil

Some quotes that stir my heart and makes me FEEL immensely for my country. If only each one of felt it each and every day...wouldn't our country be a better place??? I wish there could be solutions for hell lot of the problems faced not only by our 'Hindustan' but also everywhere else...the world - our home!

I, like millions here, dream of a better world where man cares for man instead of slaying without the slightest flinch...I dream of land where there's greenery and vegetation, where the mind is fertile like the soil which nurtures a better growth and the fields flourish...I dream of place where girls/women are treated with respect and dignity and vice versa, where girls aren't considered a burden and they aren't clipped off right in the womb...a better country where the politicians place their motherland first and foremost than their personal interests...a place where values are upheld...where children are held precious and are able to follow their dreams...where emotions are valued...where love prevails...where care is inevitable...where loyalty and faith is indestructible...where men work with nature for our posterity....

Dream - 9x12 in, cotton canvas

Leaving you here is a video that my hubby sent to me...I think it's awesome and applies here aptly :) Do not miss to watch it.....

It's the National Anthem of India and featured are our famous female dignitaries.

Linking it to Eva & Kristin's PPF :) Quote courtesy: http://www.akhileshpratap.com/2012/01/famous-quotes-by-great-indian-freedom.html

Please do not use/reproduce the content (words as well as images) without the written consent of the author.

At Peace

"idhe naguvaa manadaa chanda"(This is the beauty of a laughing heart!)

Whether the translation is apt or not I am in that state of mind. I have been listening to this Ilayaraja song and I can't stop. I crave for more and the result is that I have heard it around 25 times since yesterday, may be more than that...I have lost count!!! Pure bliss!!!

It's from the 1983 movie, Pallavi Anupallavi. Singer: my all time favourite, S.Janaki.

This is in Kannada (language of one of the Southern states,Karnataka), not my mother-tongue but love it all the same. I have fond childhood memories of Bengaluru where I spent a good part. This song portrays a wonderful mother-son relationship and is a really happy song. There's so much of love and affection in it.

I can not vouch whether you will feel the same but do give it a try :) Please do let me know whether it is working.

Well, on that musical note I am posting two my earlier works from 2012. This was for Emerging Artists which happens every year in Dubai. It's part of a series of 8 paintings. I couldn't post it earlier as that was not to be done during the period. 

I love abstracts particularly for their intuitive nature. There's nothing pre-planned, everything happens as we go from one stage to another. It is a kind of meditative state and the inner exploration is more, personally for me. There is a kind of smooth flow, a drift which is completely positive. I almost always love the results it offers. There is also so much of energy flowing through you and if you have some such song/music to accompany...it's entirely divine!!!

How would you like your creative juices to flow???

9x12 in, Cotton canvas

9x12 inches, cotton canvas

The Madhubani illustration below happened during my vacation in Dubai in April this year. It's from my first Daler & Rowney A5 sketchbook. 'She' is at peace with herself...just like me when I am listening to melodies :) I would love the night, the full moon, the breeze and some absolutely divine music! A perfect environment!

Linking it to Eva & Kristin's PPF and IF.

I would love to hear from you...please do leave your feedback. 

Thanks for coming over and enjoy your stay :)

Please do not use/reproduce the content (words as well as images) without the written consent of the author.

Ahalia Heritage Village - Part 2

For those who had not visited Hues n Shades last week or the first timers, read Part 1 before you proceed :) This post is indeed going to be a long post with an array of pictures...

Nature's lap and a haven for the tranquil, serene, green loving souls - Ahalia Heritage Village - has offered more than I had expected. Continuing our journey, here are a few more pictures that you won't be able to resist...

Let me begin with Devan Madangarly Sir...an incredible artist himself. The mural below is his offering. There are such varied nuances to it that one could spend a whole day watching it! The tribal elements are massively prominent and I could think of nothing else but this 'tree of life'!

 The gateway to the Painting Gallery

Remember the Kerala Mural Camp from my previous post? This is how it looks inside...look at each wall and one would just stand there, jaws dropped!!! I was totally in awe of the art displayed here! 

 

An old, forlorn and futile bullock-cart revived to take the center-satge :)

The happy and hard-working girls make these for the different hospitals in the campus and for home decor on demand.

These are the works of Selvan, a skilled craftsman from what I see, who was unfortunately on the leave the day I visited as he was sick. Did you notice the Oscar Award model in the first pic??? It's made out of plaster of paris. The pic in the right end is from the root of a tree!!!

Moving on to the Tribal Mural Camp which was my prime purpose to visit Ahalia -

 Warli Mural (Tribal art from Maharashtra)

It is such an intricate work and the different patterns and elements are striking...A few hours of the day isn't enough to cover all these eye-candy!

Manimala Chitrakar 

 Folk artists - Husband and wife duo - from Bengal/Kolkata

Manimalaji's husband, Mr.Deep Chitrakar, a PhD holder, didnot miss even the slighest of detail about the mural of Mata Manush. He even went on to explain the psychology of artists and the influence of physhe on colours used and the various places he visited, what he found common  among the artists everywhere and so on. It was a delight talking to him and hearing the wise words of the rich artist in person...first-hand experience!

Artist from Odisha

 Artists from Andra Pradesh

 Artists from Nilgiris (district headquarters being Ooty), Tamil Nadu

After this drooling treat for the senses which was complete with Manimalaji's song that she sang with her pata scroll of Radha-Krishna as she unfurled it; the scroll and the tale (just click below at the video link), I eventually as if in a dream floated towards the Kerala mural camp beside the library where the folk tale of Parayi (Parayipetta Pandhirukulam)and her twelve sons was being born on the twelve walls from the hands of twelve talented young mural artists - Unni Amakkavu, Devan, Harikrishnan, Sujil, Sasi Kothachira, Binil, Anoop Ramakrishnan, Abhilash, Satheesan, Ramachandran, Sreerag and Santhosh.

Unni Amakkavu, the artist in the top left picture was kind enough to accompany us and explain the tale pictured in each mural.

Devan, the artist in the top left picture, is from Guruvayur mural institute and a gifted left-handed artist, with whom I had the opportunity to have a chat while having lunch. I couldn't get to know all the artists though. Hari and Sujil, these were the names that repeatedly came my way from Dhanesh, my guide. They are self-taught artists and I must they have done some incredibly fine jobs. The down left picture in the above frame is by Hari and the down right is by Sujil.

 Works of Hari

 Works of Sujil

This is the display area of the artworks of different artists at the Ahalia Eye Hospital .

 Finally these are the artworks I bought from the artisans :

Cherial painting I bought from Madhuji

Warli I bought from Janu and Manakiji

Santhal painting bought from Manimalaji

Finally, here's the video clip of Manimalaji...not a complete one though. I fiddled with my new mobile and the first part got cut. This starts after the first stanza I believe, but magical nevertheless... please do give her your ear and you will find it bewitching & the environment was such...I felt honoured when she offered to sing the song with pata scroll & I was literally in goosebumps...was it the weather or the song??! Definitely the Song :) Immediately she soared to the height of becoming one of my favourite artists. 

"Gaghori Bhoroni Choli Radha Rani..."

Sorry, the video clip isn't getting loaded!!! I reduced the size with Windows Movies Maker, still it's not getting loaded. I have been it till 1 am yesterday and the whole of today!!! The original file is MPEG Movie, 448 MB...reduced it to 68.8 MB, Windows Media Audio/Video file. Any tips to load it here, please let me know. 

As they say, last but not the least - The name I should not forget to mention and unfortunately I couldn't click a picture of, is the Director of Ahalia Heriatge Village, Mr.Vijaya Kumar Varma...whose brilliant and organized efforts is clearly visible in those surroundings and it's smooth functioning.

Note: Ahalia has free bus service from Mangalam Towers, Town Bus Stand, Palakkad to Ahalia Campus. The timings are 8:30 am, 10:50 am and 2:20 pm.

Linking it to Eva and Kristin's PPF...catch some amazing artists over there :)


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Please do not use/reproduce the content (words as well as images) without the written consent of the author.