Exploring Nature's Beauty Through Art: Madan Lal's Exhibition in Chandigarh
Celebrating Beauty in Art
“Every aspect of life holds beauty, though not everyone perceives it,” said Confucius.
This sentiment resonates deeply with artists, particularly with the renowned Chandigarh artist Madan Lal. Currently, his solo exhibition is being showcased at the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Sector 10, Chandigarh, organized in collaboration with the Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi and the museum. His artwork radiates the splendor of nature, filled with exuberance and beauty.
Even when reflecting on the experiences of migrants in the city, Lal captures their joy. He illustrates their moments of happiness, often inspired by simple pleasures like a ride in an auto-rickshaw. This unassuming vehicle transforms into a symbol akin to Noah’s Ark, representing a sanctuary in a new environment.
The musk deer, known as Kasturi, searching for its own scent, serves as a significant motif in his work. Lal encourages viewers to discover joy, tranquility, and harmony within themselves. The parrot frequently appears in his art, symbolizing both a restless mind and a soulful essence. His connection to Sufi philosophy is evident as he recites lines from folk songs that reflect the transient nature of life.
While life may be fleeting, its beauty remains eternal. Growing up immersed in the poetry of Bulle Shah and Baba Farid, along with tales from Indian mythology, Lal’s creations embody these influences. His art is not meticulously planned; rather, it flows naturally from his surroundings. The exhibition, titled Meadows of Lifescape, features elements like Phulkari and geometric designs inspired by Le Corbusier’s architecture. His work merges the physical with the spiritual, blending subconscious and conscious thoughts into a vibrant array of colors, shapes, and textures. His color palette is predominantly bold and lively, with hues that reflect the vibrancy of nature. Yet, there are moments of somber tones, such as a poignant piece depicting a couple under an umbrella in shades of grey and black. Another captivating work from his Barahmas series, which earned him an art fellowship, illustrates the changing seasons. Lord Krishna playing the flute appears in one painting, while a Sufi poet may be depicted in another.
Over time, the expressions in his artwork have become more pronounced, capturing a wide range of emotions. However, his paintings are not meant to be realistic. Concepts like anant, anand, and anhad are not mere words for him; they are lived experiences reflected in his art. The exhibition also features fiberglass sculptures, primarily of deer and yogic poses. Regardless of the final imagery, each piece begins as a personal dialogue, a journey of self-discovery. For art to resonate, it must first convey the artist's deepest feelings, aspirations, and dreams.
(Exhibition runs until May 31)