Capturing the marvels of Rajasthan

In an attempt to capture the bygone era of Rajasthan, Priyanka Banerjee travelled the length and breadth of the desert city and came out with an exhibition titled 'Vibrant Rajsthan.' The exhibition at India Habitat Centre depicts colourful and vivacious places of Rajasthan and its people.

"The princely state of Rajasthan is replete with mesmerising forts and palaces speaking of many tales of the bygone era. Every time I visit the desert city, the architecture seems to weave tales of conquests and victories of the rulers. The glory is well preserved in the people of Rajasthan and in the majestic forts and palaces. Enduring the unmerciful desert winds and oppressing heat of the scorching sun, they have stood unshakable many sieges and have provided a safe haven for the rulers in the conflicting times," says the artist who is inspired by the simplicity of Rabindranath Tagore.

One look at her paintings of the bylanes of Jaisalmer, forts of Jodhpur, Rajasthani women, ruins of Chittorgarh, Udaipur palace, embellished camels and you can notice how detailed her work is; perfectly blended colours, carvings that look surreal and shadow of a single leaf falling on the perfect spot.

"The interplay of light and shadows on the architectural marvels has always cast a spell on me and has compelled me to captivate the magic in my paintings. In the sunlight, the architectural marvels bask in glory and tell innumerable tales of its rich heritage. Light and shadow plays a crucial role in giving depth to the subjects. For the sake of harmony of light and darks, some parts are kept darker and others lighter, creating contrasts and guiding the viewer to the key figures, place etc. A great deal of skill is required in imparting a three dimensional effect to the paintings," explained Priyanka who has used different mediums like watercolour on paper, acrylics on canvas, soft pastels on paper to execute the artworks on display at the exhibition which goes on till July 16.