Study of Contrasts

Artist Karen Rempel’s canvas draws inspiration from humanbeings and nature; the relation and the contrast

JAYWANT NAIDU

Karen Rempel from Canada has been living in Hyderabad for the past two years exploring colours on the canvas. She is currently showing her work at ‘Beyond Coffee’, Road No 36, Jubilee Hills.

Can you tell us about your background in art?

I have been working and studying visual arts for the last 25 years. I had a job in graphic designing when I finally explored the medium of colours on canvas. For the past five years, this has been my primary focus and passion.

How has it been in Hyderabad?

It’s a very colourful and vibrant city. There is a wonderful contrast of nature and development in Hyderabad. From the timeless boulder-strewn landscape of Hyderabad, I can slowly see the modern high rise buildings and concrete structures taking over the area of ancient landforms. The imposing rock formations are slowly vanishing and modern structures are taking their place. The buildings are coming up above the boulders and the nature is shrinking.

How has it been working with the young artists of Hyderabad?

We have had many ‘meet ups’ in and around the city of Hyderabad. We go on a hike, trek or walk to many places like Khajaguda, Qutubshahi Tombs, Golconda Fort, Charminar and Himayatsagar. We then start our work with colours on the canvas. We have also organised group shows with many young artists like Sayyad Shaiek. There is a group called ‘Anything Art’ and they have conducted more than 66 art related workshops.

What has been the major theme of your work in India?

There is the ‘Human Nature Series’ which takes us from one era to another. This also triggers old memories and experiences of life. Then there is the ‘DNA Series’ (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) which interconnects every living thing on earth. We are all virtually identical yet unique in our own way. These works interconnect stellar observations with micro models of DNA.Then there is the ‘Contradictions Series’ which shows the contrast between humans and nature in Hyderabad. Trees and soil change over a time period but the rock formations in Hyderabad witness many generations.

What’s the major difference in art abroad and in India?

Abroad, there is a lot of ‘Urban Art’. The approach is more modern and the work shows concrete urban landscape. Angles and forms dominate the subject. Here in India, art is still traditional. Art reflects more about the history of a place or region. There is hardly any ‘Urban Art’ in India.

What is the present scenario in art today?

Hyderabad is still a young market. There are many young talented artists. There is a bright future for all these artists.