KARACHI: The subcontinent and its oriental values have always been a source of inspiration for Western artists and writers. T.S. Eliot’s groundbreaking poem The Wasteland ends with the word ‘shanti’. Susana Marin’s fascination with the Pahari paintings, which made her get in touch with those in the subcontinent who do that kind of art, has enabled her not just to explore that genre (if you can call it that), but also to create it with inspiring finesse. An exhibition of her artworks titled One Source, Many Forms opened at the Koel Art Gallery on Tuesday, and it was a pretty special show.

It has to be said that the paintings on view reflect the beatific ambience that you associate with India’s multicultural past and present, though some might take issue with the latter. There is a strong influence of mythological characters in her artworks that are seamlessly placed in the verdant and vibrant landscapes of our region. It all begins with ‘Radha’s Flute’ (traditional Indian pigments and shell gold on handmade paper). If you’ve read mythology, you would know that the flute that the artist is referring to underlines a tale propelled by romance. But more than that, it is a symbol of memory. Marin narrates the whole story through the protagonist’s posture which personifies melancholy caused by estrangement.

‘Offering’ has a similar feel to the artwork with different visuals; and it is the visual depth of the exhibit that catches the eye. The vastness of the grey background creates a contrast with the colours of the protagonist’s attire that lends multiplicity to the interpretation of the artwork. It’s an image that is rooted in Eastern culture marked by emotion, expressed or unexpressed.

While shedding light on all of this, you cannot overlook the artist’s tremendous craft. She uses traditional media, and the colours she uses, the lines she draws, and the gestures of the characters she portrays make her art readily identifiable. And there is nothing surprising about it.

The exhibition concludes on Dec 23.

Published in Dawn, December 13th, 2017