The series which brings together his works of four years, he says, was a journey through art from life’s chaos to a sense of calm and freedom. His collection in the series presents a variety of themes and issues.[break]
“‘Kuraharu’ in the title of my series is not talks but happenings and revelations of my life that have come out as an expression in my art,” explains Lama.
From portraits to abstract art and Mithila art in acrylic medium and etchings along with some of his poetry, Lama puts forward different facets of his creative outlet. Blue and green background dominates most of his paintings, but he also boldly incorporates various striking colors into most of his canvases.
Though some of his paintings seem overdone with too many bright colors, he has achieved beautiful harmony in most of them – like in his painting entitled “Ghumto” with two figures half covered by a colorful shawl. Lama, however, says he deliberately uses these many colors. They symbolize different phases and moods of the characters he draws as the artist tries to tell stories through his paintings.
“I often try to reveal myself and my thoughts through the characters and the objects in my paintings,” he puts in.
Another painting entitled “Birthday”, a nude portrait of his mother, is one of his fine painting in the series. Lama has adeptly blended the pale purple shades for the figure set against the background of dark blue and embellished colorful stripes. Besides his portraits, his Mithila art-inspired paintings are also notable.
Lama has also experimented with different compositions in his works that give them their distinct appeals.
One strikingly common feature in most of his recent paintings is the use of birds. When asked of its significance, he clarifies that they are a symbol of freedom for him.
Furthermore, Lama, who previously worked on dots that symbolized not a full stop (.) but a pause to think and to begin, says his concept on birds is also similar.
“When I see birds in great many numbers perched on electric wires or on temple roofs, the sight appeals to me as a symbol of silent contemplations and future prospects instead of passivity; and I try to incorporate it in my art,” he adds.
Having studied commerce and then moved on to arts, taking art as a profession wasn’t an easy choice for Lama. But as he matures, he is even more determined to keep on at it than ever before.
“I now know that I can find my peace only in arts, so I don’t want to stop,” says the optimistic artist and adds, “I’m even planning to get started for my next exhibition, using the theme of shades and different views.”
Lama’s “Kura ani Kuraharu” will be on display at the aforementioned venue till August 9.
Related story
Why it Matters: Bolton revelations complicate Trump defense
