Family Stories Inspire AU Art Exhibition

visakhapatnam: The annual exhibition at Andhra University College of Fine Arts showcased more of the artistic talents of students inspired by their family struggles, sacrifices and personal experiences.

The exhibition, which lasted for three days, included paintings, sculptures and mixed media works that reflect the personal experiences and social realities of students, especially from working class backgrounds.

For D. Gopichand, the statue became a means of honoring his family. His father sells ice cream on the streets, and his mother raises cattle and sells milk. His works explored the contrasts of hostel life; It depicted the balance between loneliness and freedom, dependence and self-reliance.

Shaik Sameera Begum’s paintings focused on her mother, a seamstress whose earnings supported the family. Despite her relatives discouraging her decision to pursue art, Sameera continued on her path with the support of her mother. His works reflected the themes of perseverance and desire shaped by this experience.

Pardha Pavani was inspired by daily family life. Using materials such as papier-mâché, terracotta, fiberglass, and banana pulp, he explored themes of fragility and resilience through depictions based on personal memories and domestic experiences.

G. Lokesh Kumar’s paintings reflected his farming background. The “Faith in What We Cannot See” series examined symbols associated with agricultural traditions during the Sankranti period, depicting objects such as decorated bicycles, mango leaves, red cloth sacks and lemons as expressions of faith and continuity in rural life.

P. Giri Prasad addressed issues of caste, class and social inequality through his works. Combining acrylics, charcoal and pastels, he used landscapes and animal images to explore social divisions and the responsibilities associated with privilege.

PV Hanumanthu focused on the landscapes and cityscapes of Visakhapatnam. Based on observations of coastal roads, port activities and urban environments, he transformed his works into printmaking works using techniques such as engraving and engraving.

The exhibition highlighted how personal histories and family experiences continue to shape the creative vision of new generations of artists.