Decoding Thirukkural through visual art

We are exposed to Western concepts, literature and ideologies because there is so much information around them in an accessible format. But, the same doesn’t apply to Tamil literature and texts. This is what led city-based architect Varshini Subramanian to do an art series around Thirukkural texts.

“Knowledge about Tamil language is very limited and very few people understand the literature. When I started exploring Thirukkural, I realised that the couplets have a deeper meaning. The metaphors are unique and one can relate to them easily. Once I was exposed to it, the kurals were so simple. I wanted people to understand Thirukkural in an easy way and decided to visually interpret the classic. That’s how I did an art series with Thirukkural as the main theme,” says the artist.

Out of the 133 chapters, Varshini has completed working on 115 so far. There are images of unusual friendships, justice, internal strife, benevolence, family life, etc. Explaining the process behind each painting, she says, “I read each chapter of the kural and write a brief on what they are trying to convey, with my interpretation. Then, I start painting an image that could relate to that particular poem(s). I use watercolours (largely red and green) to paint and then digitise it for a better presentation.”

Her other major art series include Aadiperukku, Tamil festivals and art forms. “We are aware of the Halloween festival, but not of Aadiperukku which is nothing but the monsoon festival. Through my artwork I wanted to explore such festivals,” says the 23-year-old.

The youngster wanted to bring out a series on subjects that people haven’t spoken about or have low exposure. Setting up an educational system where things align with our lifestyle is also one of her future plans. “We have been relying on the British way of education system for so long. I wanted to set up an educational system where homeschooling can be made possible without the current system being followed. Education should help one to learn about our culture, traditions and the things necessary to make a livelihood,” she asserts.