Stella Maris College Artists Show Their Work in Chennai

Two art shows by Stella Maris College alumni are now open in Chennai. One features many artists with themes like the ocean and time. Another is a special reunion for the class of 1987.
By Newsroom | Art, Chennai |

A gathering of artists from Stella Maris College has led to two distinct exhibitions in Chennai, highlighting themes of personal growth, memory, and shared journeys. These events offer a look at how artistic practice evolves over time and how past connections can foster present creative endeavors. The shows are a testament to the lasting impact of academic training and the enduring nature of artistic expression.

Diverse Expressions from Stella Maris Alumni

Two exhibitions featuring alumni from the Fine Arts department of Stella Maris College, Chennai, have recently opened. One show, titled "The Art of Becoming: Stella(r) Alumni Canvas," presents a broad spectrum of artists and is curated by art historian Dr. Ashrafi S. Bhagat. This exhibition explores two conceptual themes: "The Mysteries of the Ocean" and "Fragility of Time and Space." Artists are working with various media, including watercolors, acrylics, mixed media, ceramics, terracotta, and sculpture.

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Stella Maris Fine Arts alumni present concept-driven show in Chennai - 1

A separate event, "An Artful Reunion," brings together the graduating class of 1987 from the same college. Organized by Rangashree Srinivas, Mala Chinnappa, and Varuna Arvind, this exhibition is described as a less formal, more personal coming together of artists who have continued their creative pursuits over the years. This show is being held at VA Gallery, Chamiers Road, from August 16 to 23. The works on display are said to reflect individual life experiences alongside their artistic development.

Tracing the Exhibitions' Genesis

  • "The Art of Becoming: Stella(r) Alumni Canvas" appears to draw from a wider pool of Stella Maris alumni, not limited to a specific graduating year. The presence of an art historian as curator suggests a focus on conceptual depth and critical interpretation of the artwork. The chosen themes imply a desire to explore broader, perhaps philosophical, ideas through art.

  • "An Artful Reunion" is specifically tied to the 1987 graduating batch. The organizers emphasize the organic nature of the show, stemming from the alumni's continued engagement with art. The descriptions suggest an atmosphere akin to a reunion, where individual artistic expressions are presented within a framework of shared history and friendship. This event highlights a more intimate and personal connection between the participating artists.

Evidence of Artistic Endeavor

The presented articles offer details that underscore the nature of these exhibitions:

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Stella Maris Fine Arts alumni present concept-driven show in Chennai - 2

  • "The Art of Becoming" features a notable list of artists including Lalitha Shankar, Preetha Kannan, Thejomaye Menon, and Parvathi Nayar, among others. The media used range from traditional painting forms to sculpture and ceramics. Dr. Bhagat's role as curator indicates a structured approach to the exhibition's presentation and conceptualization. The themes of the ocean and time suggest a narrative or symbolic undercurrent guiding the artwork.

  • "An Artful Reunion" involves 18 artists from the 1987 batch. The organizers, Rangashree Srinivas, Mala Chinnappa, and Varuna Arvind, are noted for their continued involvement in the art world. The exhibition is described as having an "eclectic yet deeply personal" feel, with works carrying "the stamp of a life lived outside and alongside art." This implies a mature artistic perspective informed by varied life experiences.

Artistic Themes and Their Portrayal

Conceptual Strands vs. Personal Journeys

The "The Art of Becoming" exhibition is structured around two distinct conceptual themes: "The Mysteries of the Ocean" and "Fragility of Time and Space."

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  • These themes likely serve as a unifying framework, prompting artists to interpret broad ideas through their individual artistic lenses.

  • The use of diverse media suggests an exploration of how different materials and techniques can convey these abstract concepts.

  • The curator's involvement implies an intent to present a cohesive, thematically driven collection.

In contrast, "An Artful Reunion" emphasizes the personal narratives and life experiences of the artists.

  • The reunion aspect suggests a focus on shared history and the evolution of individual artistic paths since graduation.

  • The "eclectic yet deeply personal" nature of the viewing experience points to a collection where individual styles and life stories are paramount.

  • The phrase "a reunion in paint, fabric, and form" implies a celebration of enduring friendship and creative continuity.

Expert Perspectives on Alumni Exhibitions

"The Art of Becoming: Stella(r) Alumni Canvas" has been curated by Dr. Ashrafi S. Bhagat, an eminent art historian and critic. Her selection and thematic structuring of the exhibition suggest a focus on the intellectual and artistic development of the alumni. The dual themes likely aim to provoke contemplation on nature and existence, using the artists' works as a conduit.

According to the reporting on "An Artful Reunion," the show came together "very organically." Rangashree Srinivas, one of the organizers, stated, "All of us are still doing some form of art even after all these years, and bringing it all together for a show was an obvious choice." This quote highlights the passion and sustained commitment of the artists, framing the exhibition as a natural culmination of their long-standing artistic engagement and friendship.

Observed Outcomes and Future Considerations

The two exhibitions demonstrate a common thread: the enduring connection between Stella Maris College alumni and their artistic practices.

  • "The Art of Becoming" showcases a broad alumni base, exploring overarching themes through diverse artistic interpretations and media, curated with an academic perspective.

  • "An Artful Reunion" highlights a specific graduating year, emphasizing personal growth and the strength of long-standing relationships through art.

These events collectively illustrate the vitality of the art scene fostered by the institution and provide insights into how artists navigate both conceptual explorations and personal life trajectories through their creative output. The exhibitions serve as a platform for celebrating artistic achievement and the lasting bonds formed during their formative years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the two art shows about?
One show has many artists and themes like the ocean and time. The other is a reunion for the 1987 art class.
Q: Where is the reunion show?
The 1987 class reunion art show is at VA Gallery on Chamiers Road.
Q: When is the reunion show?
The reunion show is from August 16 to August 23.
Q: Who organized the reunion show?
Rangashree Srinivas, Mala Chinnappa, and Varuna Arvind organized the reunion show.