But Unnikrishnan C’s passion for art led him to pursue his dreams, despite the odds against him.
Table of Contents
A Childhood of Artistic Inspiration
Unnikrishnan C’s journey into the world of art began at a young age. Growing up in a family of daily wage earners, his parents never encouraged him to pursue a career in the creative field. In fact, they had other plans for him. However, Unnikrishnan C’s mother, Devu Nenmara, was an artist herself. She would often paint and draw, and her son would watch her with wide eyes, fascinated by her creativity. *Some of Unnikrishnan C’s earliest memories are of watching his mother paint, and he would often try to imitate her.**
The Turning Point
As Unnikrishnan C grew older, his passion for art only intensified. He began to realize that he wanted to pursue a career in the creative field, despite the odds against him.
He was a student of the Government School of Art, Trivandrum, and was exposed to various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and printmaking.
Early Life and Inspiration
Unnikrishnan’s journey as an artist began at a young age. Growing up in a family of modest means, he was exposed to the world of art through his mother, who was a skilled painter. His mother’s passion for art was contagious, and Unnikrishnan was inspired to explore his own creative side. He was fascinated by the works of famous artists, including M.F. Husain and Raja Ravi Varma. Unnikrishnan’s early exposure to art led him to experiment with different mediums, including painting, drawing, and printmaking. He was particularly drawn to the works of Indian artists, who were known for their unique style and perspective.
The Fine Arts Course
Unnikrishnan’s decision to pursue a Fine Arts course was not taken lightly.
He recalls the long hours he spent at the family’s small shop, working alongside his father and other relatives. He remembers the countless hours he spent at the home, helping his mother with household chores and taking care of his younger siblings.
The Struggle is Real
Unnikrishnan’s family was not alone in their struggles. Many families in India, particularly in rural areas, face similar challenges. The country’s economic growth has not trickled down to the rural poor, leaving them with limited job opportunities and a meager income. The lack of access to education and healthcare further exacerbates the situation. The statistics are staggering:
- 70% of rural households in India live below the poverty line. 40% of children in rural areas do not attend school.
Early Life and Education
Unnikrishnan was born in 1985 in Kerala, India. He grew up in a family of artists and was exposed to various art forms from a young age. His father was a painter, and his mother was a sculptor. Unnikrishnan’s early life was marked by a strong connection to art, which would later influence his career as a visual artist.
Influences and Inspiration
Unnikrishnan’s artistic style is influenced by various factors, including:
- Indian classical music and dance
- Traditional Indian folk art
- Abstract expressionism
- Minimalism
These influences have shaped his unique visual language, which often incorporates elements of Indian culture and aesthetics.
Career Development
Unnikrishnan’s artistic journey began in the early 2000s, when he started experimenting with different mediums and techniques.
His family members, including his wife and children, were all artists themselves, and they were eager to contribute to the creative process.
The Power of Art in Times of Uncertainty
In times of uncertainty, art can be a powerful tool for coping with anxiety and finding solace.
Devu Unnikrishnan is a 35-year-old artist. She says Art cannot be taught. It comes from within and all we can do is provide a chance, a situation for it to be expressed, she says.
The Philosophy of Art
Art is a universal language that transcends cultural, social, and geographical boundaries. It has the power to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and inspire creativity. However, the question remains: can art be taught? Devu Unnikrishnan, a 35-year-old artist, shares her thoughts on this matter.
The Limitations of Teaching Art
Devu Unnikrishnan believes that art cannot be taught. “It comes from within and all we can do is provide a chance, a situation for it to be expressed,” she says. This philosophy is rooted in the idea that art is a deeply personal and subjective experience. Each individual’s unique perspective, experiences, and emotions shape their artistic expression. The concept of art as a personal expression is supported by the fact that people from different cultures and backgrounds create art that is deeply rooted in their own experiences and traditions. The limitations of teaching art are also evident in the fact that art is often a spontaneous and intuitive process. While techniques and skills can be learned, the creative process itself is often unpredictable and outside of one’s control.*
The Role of the Artist
So, what role does the artist play in the creative process? Devu Unnikrishnan’s philosophy suggests that the artist’s role is to provide a platform for art to be expressed. “We can provide a situation, a space for art to be created, but ultimately, it’s the artist’s inner voice that guides the creative process,” she says.
His mother was also present. She was visibly upset.
The Unsettling Encounter
The encounter between Unnikrishnan and his mother was a pivotal moment in the show’s history. It was a stark reminder of the complex relationships between artists, their families, and the art world. Unnikrishnan’s decision to include his mother’s works in the show was a bold move, but it also raised questions about the ownership and control of art. The inclusion of his mother’s works sparked a heated debate about the role of family members in the art world. Some saw it as a way to promote family ties and collaboration, while others viewed it as a form of exploitation.
His use of vibrant hues and bold brushstrokes creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere that draws the viewer in.
The Art of Unnikrishnan
Unnikrishnan’s artistic style is characterized by a unique blend of traditional and modern techniques.