26 June 2013 www.bahrainthismonth.com happeningsartsculture A lover of experimentation, an artist from Goa puts down his camera and picks up a paintbrush for his latest exhibition to be held later this month. A daring departure from his usual photo-based works, Arthur D’Souza’s new collection is not for the fainthearted. Titled WhatsInaName, each eerie piece in the collection is untitled, leaving the viewer free to deduce their own meaning. “If I put in a name, I lead people to a certain idea; if I don’t, they can see whatever they wish to see. I rather encourage the viewer to create a personal interpretation based on their own experiences,” explains Arthur. He fuses plastic and acrylic paint on wood and in the process creates tactile art that is abstract and multi-dimensional. The collection reflects a living image. It is esoteric, engaging you in new ways each time you visit the work, stimulating the imagination, while capturing energetic expressions from a different plane. As Bahrain This Month got a sneak peak into the collection to be displayed, we discovered a viewing tip. Look at the art from a smartphone camera and the images jump out — a trick that Arthur accidentally uncovered. The transition from one piece to another is complementary; the flow is seamless without blending. The compilation as a whole is mystical, balanced and transitive. The abstract expression that is a break from the usual style of the artist has allowed him a free rein to express himself without the restrictions of a pre-defined subject imposed by photography. “The difference is that my first technique was very technical and structured. I knew what my end result was going to be from the get-go. In my new collection, the work evolves as it goes. As I start working I discover things within it,” he says. However, he keeps to his layering technique; although, this time, he uses multiple layers of paint and plastic to achieve the multi-dimensional look reminiscent of his previous work. Whether it is his desire to be free of the confines of rigidity based on experience or the need to express himself through unfettered creativity, the new artworks offer a freshness that encourages discussion in a visually engaging manner. A piece that stands out is the abstract representation of breast cancer; the funds from this item will go towards a local charity that works for the cause. Having studied applied arts and majored in photography, Arthur has applied his multi-media skills to developing creative communication solutions. He was in advertising before becoming a full-time artist in 2007, when the urge to explore his full potential became immense. A resident of Bahrain for 26 years, he has developed a unique art form using photography, paper and glass. E Call 39 623-381. Finding A Connection When? June 15-29 | Event? Exhibition | Venue? Hue Food Lounge Art National Treasure When? Throughout June Event? Exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum E visit www.moc.gov.bh. For a unique cultural experience, don’t miss the 4th Annual GCC Archaeology Exhibition that will be running to the end of this month. Held at Bahrain National Museum, this year’s showcase will shed light on the development of cities from the human, historical and environmental perspectives. The exhibition displays visual urban development and growth through relics; some dating back several millennia before the Islamic period. The first settlements throughout the centuries will be focused on, with all their different cultural and social ramifications. It will also give a detailed picture of the controversy between the nomad Bedouin life style and the huge urban development of the Arabian Gulf region.
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