Vijayawada, March 02: In an effort to introduce the historical Tanjavur paintings to art-lovers in the city, the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited, popularly known as POOMPUHAR, is organising an exhibition-cum-sale at Madhu Gardens in the city.
Tanjavur paintings date back to the 16th Century when Marathas ruled Tanjvur. The art had further flourished during the Maratha rule in the 17th and 19th centuries.
Speaking to Express, exhibition manager, D Rajendran said POOMPUHAR had set up a training and production centre at Tanjvur to keep the rich art alive. He said about 25 genuine artists were doing the paintings. Presently, training was being provided to 20 youths at the centre.
Rajendran said 4-ft three dimensional painting of Goddess Kanakadurga, the presiding deity of the Indrakeeladri, was on display. It costs Rs 1.25 lakh, he added.
”I have heard a lot about Tanjavur paintings. Thanks to the Poompuhar, for bringing them here,” S Swapna, a homemaker, who bought a Vinyaka painting worth Rs 5,000, told Express.
Rajendran said that paintings worth Rs 3 lakh were already sold. He said the exhibition would continue till March 7. Artists were using 24 ct gold wrappers for making the paintings, he added. He said that were exporting paintings to other countries.
Earlier this year, a couple-based from Hyderabad who settled in the US, placed an order for a 6 X 4 ft painting of Goddess Kanakadurga worth Rs 2.6 lakh. ”We have delivered it within two months,” the manager said.
Besides the paintings, the exhibition also has ‘Panchaloha’ idols, woodcarvings, traditional handlooms and many more.
–Agencies