LUDHIANA Feb 4, 2011: Portraits on the lifestyle of Sikhs Down Under by Aussie painter Daniel Cornell invited appreciation by local art connoisseurs on Thursday. The exhibition of portraits Faith (celebrating Punjabi students in Australia), by the eminent artist has been organized at Dr MS Randhawa Art Gallery, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU).
People from almost all walks of life were drawn to the exhibition affirming the artists belief that art can bring people together and they can learn about the heritage and culture of other countries by promoting it.
Referring to the people of Sikh religion as strong, courageous and confident, Connell said that the work is a community effort. He added that the dignified demeanor of a taxi driver Lakhvir Singh led him to visually communicate the human condition of this rapidly expanding community that is enriching the Australian society. Constructed from multiple paper sheets and masking tape, the picture plane is interrupted, a direct reference to the experience of foreign students, reminding viewers of the documents, letters, study and holy texts that both destabilize and secure their lives.
The oil paintings are vigorously and roughly executed for the same, he said. Focusing on the face, the works are created with urgency. The work honors the essential teaching of Guru Nanak, which is central to an expression of faith.
Local artist DS Kapur said it is good that a foreigner has captured lifestyle of Sikhs. He added that the portraits are good. Another artist Shiv Singh said that Daniel has done an imaginative work as he has got the real character of every Sikh on the canvas.