Muted symphony

IF MUD could be moulded into K. B. Jinan's creative expression and philosophy, it would play a central part in man's `created' environment, be it architecture, interiors, function or aesthetics. Working with a community of traditional potters in Aruvukadu in Kerala, engineer and NID trained designer Jinan has created a repertoire of terracota forms which are at once a muted symphony of red, black and earth hues, exciting in their earthiness yet involved with a sense of yogic economy, of stillness.

The theme of this nationally acclaimed designer's Terracotta Exhibition-cum-Sale which is specifically aimed at interiors is `Nature', a celebration of its beauty, its intimacy with man, as well as of its non-polluting and sustainable value.

The focus of the Terracota Exhibition is murals. Celebrating Nature's exuberance in depicting vines and trellises, flowers, leaves bamboo fronds and ferns, the rectangular wooden framed murals are also delicately and minimally conceived, often reminiscent of a Japanese scroll.

Many of the murals depict elegant storks and birds in movement, others are more traditional with `kolams' and tantric symbols etc. The artist has experimented with mixing two types of clay and the result is a compelling melange of shades of red, brown and black. Also on display is a series of Ganapathi murals with the deity expressed in contemporary lines and concept.

Finding new expressions of pottery in today's context, Jinan and his community of potters have also created a range of interesting masks, urns, pots, garden lights and small sculptures for interiors and gardens.

Also, very attractive and avante garde mirror frames, some sensational tiles and engaging animal forms. The pretty tiles have been designed and crafted by the women potters of Aruvukadu.

Apart from pottery forms, the exhibition-cum-sale also showcases exquisitely crafted dhokrawork door handles and wall lights designed by Jinan in conjunction with the dhokhrawork craftsmen of Orissa. Quite stunning, they are sure to make a splash in the interior scenario. Bamboo and coconut shell wall lamps and lamp shades add another innovative touch to the exhibition.

The Terracotta Exhibition which is currently on at Manasthala, 12, Cenotaph Road, Teynampet, concludes on August 8.

PUSHPA CHARI

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