Over the years I have done a lot of work studied and researched Japanese culture. Last year I painted a set of 20 paintings based on Kabuki theater.
"Expressions series comprises of 20 paintings in ten pairs has been inspired by the duality of the Yin and Yang of emotions much like fire and water, light and dark, expanding and contracting and so on as seen in the natural world. Hence joy becomes the compliment of sorrow, Ecstasy the compliment of Agony etc.
The human mind is the root of all our emotions, thoughts and behaviour its communication being through brainwaves. Waves follow the principle of the Yin and Yang of energy, the creation of the trough being dependent on the formation of the crest.
Inspired by Japanese Kabuki theatre, which together with Greek tragic-comedy and Indian Sanskrit opera is one of the oldest dramatic art forms in the world. While its unique melodies may sound strange to unaccustomed ears, the characteristic bold and dramatic make- up has universal appeal. Exaggerated designs are painted on each performer's face to symbolize the character's personality, role, and fate. Indeed, familiar audiences can grasp the story simply by observing the facial painting and costumes. Mohanbabu draws inspiration from this classical tradition, while adopting a minimalist modern approach inspired by her background in architecture and fashion design.
Visual elements of The Kabuki theatre along with wave forms and elements from nature have been adapted with a minimalist modern approach inspired by Lakshmi’s background in Architecture and Fashion design. Shapes are formed in the viewers mind without defining contours of the face with a degree of realism in the eyes and the mouth to enhance a particular emotion.
The colours used are Black, White and Red. Black and White depict the traditional Yin Yang showing opposing elements and Red and White represent the colours of Japan.
The choice of paper is in line with its use through the ages in Japanese paintings. Acrylic, a modern medium is in line with the theme of Yin & Yang hence the blend on old and new.
All if it is done in minimalistic style with each painting taking about three months to complete from concept to creation.”
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