At the IIWC Art Gallery in Basavanagudi, the art exhibition titled Namana unfolded not as a typical event but as a serene gathering. The venue's red oxide floors and old-world calm provided a perfect backdrop for artworks created with meticulous care. This was not an exhibition of bold declarations but rather a collection of quiet studies—each piece representing an act of focused attention.
The Heart of the Ecosystem: Sheshadri Mokshagundam
Central to this artistic ecosystem is Sheshadri Mokshagundam, the founder of Sheshadri's Artpourri. Drawing and painting have been integral to his life since childhood, evolving into a daily discipline long before formal recognition. Without any formal training, he honed his skills through keen observation, particularly during his formative years under the guidance of renowned artist B K S Varma.
In 2001, Sheshadri opened his hobby centre, where teaching came to him instinctively. Over the years, the studio transformed into a collaborative space where individuals learned together and rediscovered their passion for art. The group that gathered here mirrored the inclusive nature of the space itself, comprising engineers, architects, entrepreneurs, retired educators, and students.
A Space for New Beginnings
For many participants, the studio served as a gateway—an opportunity to start afresh. Anitha Rao, an engineer who transitioned into entrepreneurship, found her way to the studio through her daughter. She began her artistic journey from the basics, starting with colour pencils, progressing to watercolours, and eventually mastering oils.
Architect Mangala Madhuchand returned to art after a significant hiatus, having spent only two early years at the studio. Her series of 124 pen-and-ink miniature portraits became a personal challenge. "Recreating allows no shortcuts," she reflects. "The discipline taught me how to persist through uncertainty. In a way, architecture continues here through art."
The Essence of Namana
The exhibition Namana encapsulated more than just displayed artworks; it represented a community bound by shared dedication and rediscovery. The red oxide floors and tranquil ambiance of the IIWC Art Gallery fostered an environment where each piece could be appreciated as a testament to patience and perseverance.
This gathering highlighted how art can serve as a medium for personal and professional growth, bridging diverse backgrounds through a common creative pursuit. The stories of Anitha Rao and Mangala Madhuchand underscore the transformative power of returning to one's artistic roots, proving that it is never too late to embrace creativity anew.
