Karnataka, a southern state in India, boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by its diverse linguistic, religious and ethnic backgrounds. Its art and culture reflect a fusion of influences from various historical epochs, creating a vibrant tapestry of tradition. In recent times, a new generation of artists has played a significant role in preserving and promoting the state’s artistic legacy. Among them, Hinkal resident L. Basavaraju has garnered attention for his exceptional artwork.
Reports indicate that Basavaraju completed his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the esteemed Chamarajendra Academy of Visual Arts (CAVA) in Mysore, Karnataka. Affiliated with the University of Mysore, CAVA offers a range of courses encompassing drawing, painting, sculpture, graphics, applied arts, photography, photojournalism and art history, granting degrees in Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and MFA.
Over the past two decades, Basavaraju has made significant strides in various art forms, demonstrating proficiency in ten distinct mediums, including stone carving, wooden carving, relief art, fibre art, clay art, wall carving, cement art creation and mural painting. His talent and dedication have earned him accolades, including the Shilpakala Academy Award for his outstanding contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Basavaraju’s artistic repertoire encompasses diverse subjects, from depictions of motherhood and social figures like Dr BR Ambedkar to religious motifs such as Lord Shiva and representations of nomadic lifestyles. His craftsmanship, characterised by rhythm, smoothness, delicateness and patience, has left a lasting impression on the art industry.
Notably, Basavaraju’s artworks are highly sought after, commanding prices ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh, depending on the intricacy and scale of the piece.
Another prominent artist from Mysore, Karnataka, is Arun Yogiraj, renowned for his monumental sculptures. Yogiraj gained widespread acclaim for sculpting a 30-foot statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, installed beneath the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate in New Delhi on the 125th birth anniversary of the freedom fighter. Additionally, his idol of Ram Lalla adorns the revered Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Hailing from Agrahara, Mysore, Yogiraj continues to contribute significantly to the cultural landscape of Karnataka and beyond.
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