Acclaimed sculptor, mural artist and Mumbai-based painter Rouble Nagi, is showcasing her exhibition of paintings, ‘Strokes of Strength‘, next week at the Lalit Kala Akademi, in New Delhi, from 19-24 December. In this interview to Le CITY deluxe INDIA, she talks about the collection and more:
LCDI: What is the significance of this collection for you? Also tell us about the inspiration for the collection.
Rouble Nagi: This collection was painted during my six-month stay in Europe, as I travelled to places UK, France, Netherland, Sweden, and Norway. My use of vibrant colour to depict the colour scheme of the different places I visited. My travel and being one with nature was my inspiration to create, also this entire series was painted in 12 months.
LCDI: Which is your favourite piece and why?
Rouble Nagi: All my paintings are my favourites, but if I did have to pick one, it would be Lady in Red. It is a figment of my imagination, and I have tried to incorporate onto my canvas my vision of this graceful and sensual lady in an evening gown. Her stand and posture show confidence and strength.
LCDI: Could you name some artists, whose works inspire you?
Rouble Nagi: Some artists who have inspired me are Jackson Pollock, M F Husain, and Vincent Van Gogh.
LCDI: What form of the arts are you more attracted to sculptures or paintings or murals?
Rouble Nagi: My passion lies in mural-making, and three-dimensional objects that can be felt, art that can interact. Painting for me happens only when I am inspired, and that is the reason I exhibit once every three to four years.
LCDI: Abstract art evokes different perceptions, and thus different reactions. What emotions do you hope to arouse with this collection?
Rouble Nagi: Art is subjective; it is easier to emote with writing and acting. Painting what you feel and letting your audience experience what you are feeling is really difficult. My canvases are happy with bright and cheerful colours.
LCDI: Why is the collection titled ‘Strokes of Strength’?
Rouble Nagi: The collection is titled so because I am supremely confident while taking on my canvas, and use an action style of working with my canvas. Strokes flow freely and merge evenly with colour. I feel absolute power when I am with my canvas and have a brush in my hand. Nothing fascinates and excites me more than a blank canvas.
Text by Treesha Datta