Chithrakala Academy’s 44th Annual Art Exhibition was officially inaugurated on Wednesday at Kasthuri Sreenivasan Art Gallery. Kalaimaamani Awardee ‘Oviyar’ Jeeva who spearheads the academy inaugurated the exhibition along with other senior members.
Speaking to The Covai Mail, Jeeva that Chithrakala Academy was established in Coimbatore in 1978, and it is now approaching its 48th year of operation, with plans already underway to celebrate its Golden Jubilee in two years.
“The forum brings together artists who originated from Coimbatore, many of whom began their journeys during their student years and have since progressed into successful art directors and professionals working across Chennai, Dubai, and other global regions,” he said.
Talking about the exhibition he said this edition showcase features 60+ original artworks displaying a wide variety of styles, themes, and mediums. Visitors can view everything from abstract and realistic paintings to works crafted in watercolors, oils, and pencil sketches. The exhibition is officially open to the public with free entry running through September 13th.
Jeeva shared that an artwork titled ‘Cockroach’ with a modern political commentary created by senior artist Chinna Raj, got sold right after the inauguration. In fact this is the first time in recent years that a painting is getting sold on the first day of the exhibition here.
Jeeva further emphasized that while original art sales in Coimbatore remain modest due to a slow realization of fine art’s value in home decor, the academy remains vital for showcasing local talent.
