Every dot counts

Every dot counts

Age is no bar to invest time and energy into acquiring a new skill. Retired banker Jayant Deodhar testifies to this fact. At 65, Deodhar will be exhibiting his stippling art at Bal Gandharva Art Gallery from Sunday. 

Stippling is the creation of a pattern simulating varying degrees of solidity or shading by using small dots. Deodhar decided to plunge into creating art works inspired by his favourite artist Prabhakar Patwardhan.

“I realised my artistic leanings long ago, but it’s only after meeting Prabhakar Patwardhan, a professional artist, that I thought I could express myself through art. Patwardhan helped me understand this beautiful art form,” says Deodhar. 

The former banker doesn’t have professional degree in art. In the past, he appeared for two elementary papers. But today he is having a solo exhibition, and in the future hopes to have another one at Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai. 

Says he, “Stippling is very different from other mediums of painting that we are acquainted with. It helps to have degree or training to take up oil and watercolour painting. As far as stippling is concerned, you need to have basic knowledge about painting and that’s good. It requires a paper, pen and love for art.” 

“Stippling means minute dots that make up a huge painting. You have to keep reminding yourself that every small dot is equally important. This will help you achieve perfection. This exhibition was a challenge and I am glad I could accomplish it. My next challenge is to curate my second exhibition at the Jehangir Art Gallery,” he adds. 

Deodhar, who is also passionate about dance, music, literature and sports, has created pictures of the famous personalities from these fields. Some of them will be on display at the exhibition. “I have devoted one section to Pu La Deshpande, who is my favourite. He is also popular amongst many people for his humour and heartwarming stories. This year, being his 100th birth anniversary, I thought I would pay a tribute to Pu La through my artworks. I will be exhibiting 14 of his paintings done by me,” he adds. 

Talking about the feedback that he has received for his efforts, Deodhar says, “It has been mixed. Some people have praised me, others have judged me. But what drives me is the encouragement and feedback that I get from the people whom I have painted. I had a heartfelt interaction with many noted personalities. It was such a privilege. I think this skill has unlocked a new person in me who urges me to lead a new exciting life.”

When asked if he has words of advice for the young, Deodhar says, “I think the youth should pick up a hobby for themselves. It does not need to be painting in particular, but anything, a sport for instance, that relaxes them. Something that helps them to express themselves. It’s important because these children are the future of the country. They need to be creative and open.” 

ST READER SERVICE
Senior artist Jayant Deodhar to display his stippling art at Bal Gandharva Art Gallery, Shivajinagar from July 7-9, 10 am – 8 pm

Enjoyed reading The Bridge Chronicle?
Your support motivates us to do better. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay updated with the latest stories.
You can also read on the go with our Android and iOS mobile app.

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
The Bridge Chronicle
www.thebridgechronicle.com