SKIB-71 shines again with exquisite masterpieces

By Renuka Dhakal,Kathmandu, June 24: SKIB-71 is an art group established in 1971 comprising four legendary artists -- Shashi Bikram Shah, Krishna Manandhar, the late Indra Pradhan, and Basta Gopal Vaidya. All of them had graduated from the J.J. School of Art in Bombay, India. 

The group was formed in Kathmandu with the objective of promoting Nepali art. They named the group after the first letters of each artist’s name.

 Of them, Indra Pradhan died in 1995.  However, the remaining three members have not given up their artistic endeavours, they have been vigorously promoting Nepali art both in Nepal and abroad. The SKIB-71 has once again come up with a new art exhibition entitled ‘Antarsambandha’.

 This captivating exhibition is now showcasing a collection of 32 artworks by the members of SKIB-71 at the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts in Naxal, Kathmandu.  Art-goers can observe the captivating art pieces of the veteran artist Shashi Bikram Shah, whose work primarily revolves around majestic creature horses.

Throughout a remarkable career spanning over five decades, he has consistently directed his artistic focus towards these majestic creatures. With the skilled use of colours and brushes, Shah brings forth a multitude of horse variations on the canvases.

Deep-dived in the meticulous depiction of horses on his canvases, he delved profoundly into the realm of spiritualism and religion, illuminating the human experiences of happiness, sorrow, and the struggle for liberation.

Another member Krishna Manandhar, who is known for creating abstract paintings, connecting with nature, has showcased his paintings depicting the seasonal changes experienced by mountains, trees, and leaves, and their profound influence on the natural world. 

One can find solace and peace in his paintings. Mountain series, tree series, and overlapping series of paintings can be observed in the exhibition.  

Initially, he ventured into the realm of the impressionist style, but quickly he shifted to abstract painting. Through his art, he has tried to show the deep connection between nature and its impact on human existence. 

Basta Gopal Vaidya's paintings capture the essence of Nepali culture through the depiction of symbols and images that hold deep cultural significance. His artworks centre on the exploration of tantric philosophy and various religious customs prevalent in Nepal. The visitors can observe Vaidya's masterful portrayals of Lord Ganesh, Jatra (Festival), Stupa, and Bhairava. Each painting serves as a visual tribute to these integral aspects of Nepali culture.

Through his skillful brushstrokes and meticulous attention to detail, Vaidya brings the vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and sacred symbolism associated with these subjects to life. 

He invites viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty and diverse Nepali traditions.

Late Pradhan was a renowned painter known for his exploration of the complexity of ritual and cultural values in his artwork.

 His paintings delved into profound concepts such as love, mystery, and divinity, captivating viewers with their abstract expressionism and the incorporation of music and rhythm.

One of his notable works features Lord Ganesh and other god-like faces on a yellow and light pink canvas, showcasing Pradhan's unique rhythmic style using oil colours. This painting illustrates his ability to infuse music and rhythm into his artwork, creating a harmonious visual experience.

In another painting, Pradhan had captured the essence of human emotions. Using a brown canvas, he depicted a multitude of feelings unfolding in various colours, representing the ever-changing nature of emotions. 

Pradhan's tree series of paintings also stood out for their vibrant colours and musical expression. 

Pradhan's art continues to be celebrated for its exploration of ritual, culture, and the intangible aspects of life. His unique approach to abstract expressionism, incorporating music and rhythm, left a lasting impact on the art world, and his paintings remain a tribute to his talent and creativity.

The art exhibition that began on June 18 will continue until June 27.