Touch and Feel

Graduating in medicine from the Armed Forces Medical College,Pune,Patwardhan moved to Mumbai in 1973 and worked as a radiologist in Thane till 2005. “But I knew that art and medicine will be parallel professions for me,” said the soft-spoken artist,as he watched the young artists unfold their white canvases,waiting for him to open the workshop.

The city of Mumbai and its surroundings continue to be a source of inspiration for him. The social fabric of Mumbai and the life of its inhabitants are deeply reflected in his works. “Art is about people,and since mine is figurative work,it’s more identifiable. Of course,the work can be seen in various contexts,” he said.

For someone who is not trained in art,or did not go to any art school,Patwardhan admits that technique is not what he is here to share with the young artists. “The workshop is more about prodding to ask why. If they have chosen a subject,then what’s the reason behind it. We are going to focus on the process,intuitiveness and the important aspect of looking at an artwork with a critical eye,” said Patwardhan.

The artist,who defines himself as a painter of the people,says that without any formal training,learning everything has been a struggle,but he has had the freedom to create without any baggage,and also a chance to think,rethink and experience various emotions to convey many feelings.

“Art changes with time,as you do. With age,you look at people and your art in varied ways and I hope this workshop will give us new perspectives,” said Patwardhan,whose workshop at the museum gallery is on till August 20.

In the second gallery of the museum,Sharma,widely recognised as a gifted miniaturist and art historian,spoke about his role in reviving the traditions of Pahari miniature painting in Himachal Pradesh. Besides being an accomplished painter,Sharma is a researcher and prolific writer,who has trained many young artists in the art of Pahari painting.

To promote the art and artists of Himachal Pradesh,Sharma founded Shilpa Parishad in Chamba and spearheads the NGO. He paints in various Indian styles,but the Basohli and Kangra schools of Pahari painting are his forte. “Nothing surpasses the joy of creating. While it’s tough to teach in five days,I can tell those who are appreciators of Pahari painting that it’s a process that requires patience,love and attention. Pahari painting is like a triangle. One point is a painting,the other a patron and the third is the painter. It’s essential that these points come together,” said Sharma.

“Painting,” he added,“is a prayer”,and he hopes that those who walk in to see the process as part of the workshop will appreciate this living tradition and its vastness.

Both the workshops start at 11 am