One can say the easel is set for the sixth edition of the multi-art show organised by Art Bengaluru Collective (ABC) with canvases and artboards ready with stories of many hues. Over 250 artworks in oil, acrylic, pen-and-ink, cement, and a wide range of media in a myriad avatars will be on display at ABC 6.0.
Founded in 2022 by journalist-artist Rasheed Kappan and painter-theatre personality Ranji David, ABC was created as a democratised space for artists transcending experience, background or interests.
The initial idea was to give a gallery-like experience to artists, says Rasheed. “A gallery atmosphere is where people can come and enjoy art, look at every piece and interact with art lovers and artists. Every artist craves to be part of a gallery as it is a dignified space.”
Artwork from Art Bengaluru Collective show. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
However, Rasheed feels many galleries are inaccessible to artists who are just starting out. Sometimes, even seasoned artists prefer to be part of an art community, and do not want to host a solo show. “Over the last two or three years, we have collaborated with almost 25 artists at each show. Last year, we held it at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, where we had more than 35 artists.”
According to Rasheed, an event such as ABC democratises art from a gallery perspective.
Sharing her excitement about showcasing her art, Anuradha Aripirala, a debutant artist, says she began painting as a hobby while she used to work for a private company as a graphic artist. After quitting her corporate job, Anuradha turned to art full time, experimenting with cement and colours.
Artwork from Art Bengaluru Collective 6.0. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
“I used to do acrylic painting as a hobby. Then, I began experimenting with shapes using cement. I use plaster of Paris, white cement, and joint compound powder to create a 3D look. It is also called 3D relief art. I use knives and brushes to shape my work, and then paint it. I also use wall putty,” says Anuradha.
“Recently, two of my paintings were on display at an art show in Mumbai, but since I was not there, I do not know what the response to my work was. This will be my first, in-person show and I am looking forward to it.”
A still from ABC 6.0 show. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Salmin Sheriff, a theatre director and playwright, believes ABC’s initiative of bringing together artists and art lovers and making art accessible and affordable, is commendable. He has been showcasing his works at ABC since its inception and says, “It feels more like a community event. While most galleries are business-oriented or commission-based, at ABC, one is free to sell what is yours directly to a customer.”
For Salmin, painting is another stage where he can tell his stories while the colours perform. “I am a theatre person. I write plays. I direct and act. When I started painting about 15 years ago, I had no idea what to paint, but then, it hit me — I am a storyteller, why don’t I tell a story in a frame? I bring together experiences, people and sometimes socio-political, gender and patriarchy issues together and put it them on one canvas.”
“I use a lot of colour to make it interesting because sometimes the subject can be serious. I want people to observe a painting — colour attracts them initially, later, they look at the story within the painting.”
A still from the ABC 6.0 show. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
This year, ABC 6.0 will be back at the Rangoli Metro Art Centre which has been its home since its launch with the exception of the fifth edition, which was held at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath. Traditional and abstract paintings, live art and caricatures, and dozens of creative interactions are expected at this edition.
The three-day event will be more of an interactive experience for whoever walks in, instead of just an art exhibition, says Rasheed.
“This season we are looking at art buyers and art investors, with pieces ranging from ₹2000 to ₹50,000. We plan to have events such as book readings and live paintings as well as artist introductions.”
A still frpm the ABC 6.0 show. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Talking about ABC’s future ventures, Rasheed says, “We are planning to organise premium shows that are curated and theme-based. The artist and artwork will be chosen by critics based on themes. However, we also want to keep this parallel space open for all artists.”
This year’s edition will showcase the artworks of around 25 artists, most of whom will be exhibiting for the first time. The show will be inaugurated on March 28 by artist Surekha and art historian Anil Kumar.
Art Bengaluru Collective 6.0 will be held at Rangoli Metro Art Centre, MG Road metro station from March 28-30, from 10am to 6pm. Entry free.
Published - March 27, 2025 10:52 am IST
arts, culture and entertainment / Bangalore
Source: The Hindu - India News
