The new art adda

Named after revolutionary leader who revolted against feudal lords, Ailamma Art Gallery opened at Sundarayya Vignana Kendram.

There is an addition to the list of art galleries in the twin cities. Ailamma Art Gallery, the new art space that has come up at the Sundarayya Vignana Kendram was inaugurated by Padmashree Jagdish Mittal in a simple function on Friday.

A selection of paintings of a group of artists, titled ‘Genesis of memorabilia’ curated by Koeli Mukherjee Ghose was thrown open to the public.

Delivering a lecture on the topic ‘Art and Independence’ noted art critic, Suneet Chopra called artists not to engage with the masses. “Art does not exist if there isn’t a discourse. There is nothing like apolitical art.”

He hailed the bravado and revolutionary spirit of Ailamma who raised her voice against feudalism. “Artists should be participants in social movements and be conscious of surroundings. The artist has a duty towards society”. He also added that an artist must be ready to be free from an expensive lifestyle and not become a slave to the guiles of the capitalist class. “I hope that this gallery would teach artists about struggle against oppression and to fight for rights,” he added. Vijay Rao, Editor, Prajasakthi Book House said that plans are afoot to set up a Sundarayya museum soon.