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June 13, 2006Enticing artists to Kottakunnu
Malappuram has given many refreshing memories to artists, despite its neglect for long not only by the authorities but also its own people. After hogging the limelight of the art world by conducting numerous programmes, including a national portrait camp, the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi's Art Gallery at Kottakunnu in Malappuram is set to make history. It will soon have a full-fledged studio for artists to work.
The Kottakunnu Gallery will become the first one in Kerala to have a state-of-the-art studio where artists can work even when exhibiting their works. Working in Kottakunnu Art Gallery will be a different experience. "It is certainly rewarding," said Koya N.K.P. Muthu, internationally acclaimed surrealist painter, during a recent visit to Malappuram.
No other art gallery in the State is set against such scenic beauty. Kottakunnu, a tabletop tourist destination in Malappuram, unravels the sylvan charm of the Eranadan hills. This hill in Malappuram town has many a tale from history, including the execution of Variankunnathu Kunhahammed Haji, the hero of the Malabar Rebellion.
The scenic charm of Kottakunnu has for long conquered the hearts of artists. All artists and celebrities who have visited Kottakunnu and its Art Gallery have expressed their desire to revisit the spot.
Unlike other art galleries, Kottakunnu Art Gallery is away from the din of the town. Yet, it is only four or five minutes walk from the town. "It is a perfect location for a creative mind to work," said K.V. Dayanandan, Akademi member and caretaker of the Art Gallery.
Artists Koya and Shibu Natesan have compared Kottakunnu Art Gallery to Hyderabad's Chitramayi Art Gallery. The studio, when completed, will add yet another irresistible feature to Kottakunnu.
