Pratibha Awasthi, an artist of exceptional brilliance, is a living embodiment of creativity, where her soul resonates with the murmurs of nature and the vibrant tapestry of tribal heritage. In this delicate interplay, her spirit finds profound harmony, and her imagination soars to unfathomable heights. Within the simplicity of an underdeveloped landscape also lies a veritable treasure trove of tribal artistry, an aesthetic feast that enraptures the senses and ensnares the mind.
These indigenous expressions, endowed with an intrinsic depth and irresistible allure, seamlessly wove themselves into the very fabric of Pratibha’s existence. What began as a mere pursuit evolved into the essence of her soul. With every deft stroke of the brush and every carefully crafted word, she further endeavours to capture the ineffable essence of her soul’s most profound yearnings.
Determined to carve her niche as a contemporary artist of unparalleled vision, Pratibha draws inspiration from the resplendent tapestry of tribal life and the natural world that surrounds her. Through an eclectic array of media—acrylic, oil, charcoal, ink, and beyond—she strives to convey the semi-conscious realms of thought, evoking the serene, unadulterated simplicity of her environment with meticulous precision.
In an exclusive and enlightening conversation with The Interview World during the inauguration of the Gandhi Darshan Art Gallery, Pratibha Awasthi shared her profound insights. The occasion, graced by the presence of Om Birla, Speaker of the Parliament, marked a seminal moment in the promotion of art, culture, and Gandhian values.
Pratibha spoke passionately about the artwork she created in homage to Gandhi, offering thoughtful reflections on how his timeless ideals could serve as a bulwark against the mindless exploitation of nature. She also articulated her perspectives on the opening of such galleries and underscored the centrality of Gandhi’s philosophy to her future artistic endeavours, particularly in the context of nature and its preservation. Below are the key takeaways from her deeply insightful conversation.
Q: Gandhi Darshan Art Gallery has featured your two paintings. How do you feel your works represent Gandhi, and what message do you hope to convey through these pieces?
A: From my earliest years, I have been steeped in the teachings of Gandhi, a legacy I inherited from my grandfather, who too drew profound inspiration from his words. Over the years, my artistic endeavours have been deeply intertwined with nature—not merely as a subject, but as a living, breathing entity. In my work, I have sought to fuse the ideals of Gandhi with the very essence of the natural world, underscoring the inextricable link between the two. As the environment deteriorates and human encroachment continues unabated, I have endeavoured to convey the urgent need to preserve nature alongside the timeless wisdom of Gandhi’s philosophy.
Through my art, I have striven to demonstrate that Gandhi was not merely a figure of the past. His relevance, far from diminishing, has only grown more pressing with time. His influence was crucial in his era, it remains indispensable in the present, and it will continue to be of paramount importance as we move forward. These are the themes I have delved into, and they remain the cornerstone of my work.
Q: How do you believe Gandhi’s ideals align with the urgent need for nature preservation, especially in a time of degraded ecosystem?
A: Gandhi’s ideals of non-violence and simplicity resonate with a timeless and urgent call for environmental preservation. He espoused a life in harmonious coexistence with nature, advocating self-sufficiency and the mindful consumption of resources. In an age plagued by the reckless exploitation and wanton devastation of our ecosystems, his principles urge us to fundamentally reconsider our relationship with the natural world.
Through the adoption of sustainable living, the curtailment of waste, and the fostering of ecological equilibrium, we can pay homage to his indomitable vision. Gandhi’s teachings beckon a profound shift from the voracious appetite of consumerism to the dignified pursuit of conscious living, cultivating an unwavering respect for the Earth and the myriad life forms that depend upon it.
Q: What is your perspective on the opening of such galleries?
A: We must establish more galleries of this ilk, for the disparity between the number of artists and the availability of galleries is striking. The exorbitant costs of private galleries render them inaccessible to many, depriving countless artists of the opportunity to showcase their work. Moreover, these new galleries will prove indispensable in the future, offering a platform for exhibitions, group shows, and a variety of enriching programs. I also genuinely feel elated to have been chosen as a member of this esteemed community.
Q: Your paintings were selected for the inaugural exhibition, and you are one of the 80 artists chosen. Looking ahead, what further contributions would you like to make in alignment with the ideals of Gandhi?
A: My committment to advancing the profound ideals of Gandhi is resolute. His philosophy is unequivocal: our actions must also mirror our words. In an era beset by ceaseless wars and pervasive hatred, his message resonates with an unparalleled urgency. When the conflict is continuously engulfing the world, we must counter with love, unity, and a collective commitment to collaboration. In essence, it is precisely this transformative vision that I seek to champion.
