The subjects of the portraits on display at Blue Lemon
art gallery feature children, women and elderly people artistically
incorporated using a range of mediums extending from watercolours to pastels,
to acrylics, pencils and even to the humble charcoal. Artist Rudi De Silva has
experimented with varied subjects but refers to portraiture as one of his
favourites. “It is not only challenging to get the drawing and features right,
but also to execute it in different mediums. And then finally it should not
only resemble the person you are trying to portray but also be a beautiful work
of art to be enjoyed and shared,” says Rudi, who, along with his wife Evita,
who is also an artist, holds an exhibition every year to commemorate the
birthday of their late son – Blake Noah, and this year ‘Glances’ has provided
an opportunity to focus this special topic under one theme.
In Blake’s loving memory, the portraits have been
painstakingly executed with attention to fine details and gentle strokes. The
31 beautiful works of art tell their own special story. Rudi’s talent is
especially noted in his meticulous detailing of the eyes of his subjects
resulting in portraits that produce an unexpectedly realistic effect. The
viewer can almost feel the abandoned joy of the street urchins, or sense the
wisdom behind the leathery blue-eyed Bedouin, or visualise the life experiences
of the furrowed Royal Porter. The Lamp Bearer is a mesmerising portrait of a
lined grandmother captured in time and hints of light in an almost
Rembrandt-like appeal.
Last year’s display was titled Divine Garden and featured
an impressive assemblage of floral works commissioned by the couple. Rudi and
Evita have created the ‘Art with a Heart’ initiative under the Blake Noah De
Silva Foundation and all the proceeds from their exhibits go towards helping
numerous children obtain food, education, clothing and other vital essentials.
Evita explains, “One of the beneficiaries was Navajyothi Rehabilitation Centre
in Baina who were provided with provisions, books and monetary aid for computer
education through Sisters Adorers Nuvem.” The duo have also provided financial
support to numerous schools in their village in Benaulim such as Auxillium High
School through scholarships, paid tuitions, books
and uniforms.
Rudi, who also teaches art, describes the creative scene
in Goa as a hotbed for people with endless sources of inspiration. “Goans in
particular are very creative and expressive in different fields and if you want
to excel, you should seek your voice and express that through a medium you
love. Believe in yourself and be open to learning new things. You will be
surprised what you can pick up with an open mind.”
‘Glances’ is open at Blue Lemon, Colva till September 16,
2014, 10am to 8pm
