'Indian audiences not very receptive to abstract art'

Indian audiences are not as receptive to abstract art as they are to traditional art, young abstract artist Ekta Jain says, adding that the abstract gives her more freedom to express than through a traditional figurative painting.

"I don't see Indian audience being so receptive to abstract art forms, the way they receive traditional or figurative art forms. Indians, in this aspect, are not as receptive as the western society. But a change is coming in, which is welcome," Jain told IANS, at her latest exhibition "Emoting Hues".

The use of bold colours by the 39-year-old artist, which has been widely received by the fraternity, is also the most picturesque aspect of her works.

Bold reds over contrasting faded yellow, or the classic use of black on a white canvas are quite pleasing aesthetically, even if one isn't a big fan of abstract art.

Symmetry, also one of her strongest aspects, is the major factor drawing the eyes.

Unlike many other artists who draw inspiration from around them, Jain said, her life and her journey through ups and downs in life have been her sole inspiration.

Through Emoting Hues, Jain draws upon geometrical figures, lines, circles, and co-relates them with human emotions.

"Through geometric lines or curves, I try to convey my interpretation of the cycle of life and how one reaches the higher steps and the subtlety in life," Jain said.

Jain, who was also a portrait and figurative artist earlier, said abstract gave her more freedom to express things, than a symbolic, figurative painting.

Talking about the use of brush, she said, "The paintings displayed in the exhibition represent architectonic and abstract art. As a painter I like to use different devices at the disposal of my brush."

Some of her paintings - Eternal Flow, Submission - speak of the impression of life she resonates through her paintings.

To remove the negativity in life and replace it with positive thoughts through her colours and contrasts is her aim through this series of paintings, she said.

"I have tried to merge and juxtapose at the same time, vivid colours and lines that criss-cross on the canvas. In a way, it is like chaos giving way to harmony," Jain said.

Jain, who is over six years in the field, said the upcoming artists today could be lured into picking that form of art even if they are not good at it, as it sells.

By following the heart is only when art can be done justice to, Jain added.

Jain's show is on view at the India Habitat Centre till Aug 21.

(Bhavana Akella can be contacted at bhavana.a@ians.in)