‘Wonder That Was Vijaynagar’ is an attempt by this group of photographers to document the heritage and aesthetics of an era bygone
Within history nestle several tales. If well preserved,it can form a reservoir of fond bygone memories. Five city-based artists are trying to document and preserve for posterity the grandeur of Vijaynagara,through over 200 select photographs. The exhibition titled ‘The Wonder That Was Vijaynagar’ captures the essence of Hampi and nearby sites,and will be displayed from August 13 to 15 at Bal Gandharava Kala Dalan.
A similar sentiment is shared by Vandana Khedikar who worked as a photographer and artist at the Nagpur University’s Archeology Department for 16 years before joining the D Y Patil College of Applied Art and Craft as an assistant professor. “We have tried to look at the aspect of art at the site. The place is mostly in ruins but there is still so much to capture,so many stories to tell.” Khedikar,a doctorate holder,researched well on the subject and has been documenting heritage sites through photography.
For Khemchand Khairnar who works as an artist and photographer at National Agricultural Research Project,Ganeshkind,Aundh,this was also an attempt to bring out the aesthetic culture of the country. “I have always been interested in capturing the huge pillars,wide steps,mandapa and large kundas . Temples have interested me greatly. And with their grandeur and beauty,they also represent an important phase in history.”
In the exhibition,Khairnar will not only present his photographs but also his paintings. His next exhibition will be ‘Khajurao to Mandavgada’. Vishal Khairnar,a designer by profession,has also contributed around 40 pictures for the exhibition along with Shreekant Shimpi,an IT consultant.
The exhibition will be held from August 13 to 15 at Balgandharav Kala Dalan