The themes and styles of father-daughter duo artists Laxman and Priyanka Aelay are starkly different from each other. His floral-themed paintings in bright hues portray women in a festive atmosphere in rural Telangana, while her paintings depict the deep, mysterious forests with its diverse flora and fauna. Well-defined drawings form the basis of his work, while her forms are more free flowing. This writer got a preview of their new series at their studio in Somajiguda, Hyderabad, ahead of their exhibition at the State Gallery of Art, Hyderabad, from September 18 to 25. In October, the artists will be showcasing their respective series at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai. This is the first time the two will be hosting their solo shows simultaneously at the two galleries.
A festive, floral series
Laxman Aelay’s Poolamma - the Goddess of Life series of paintings has a floral theme, inspired by Bathukamma festivities of Telangana. The large format paintings, some of them measuring 6x8 feet or more, feature rural Telangana women draped in bright saris, wearing jewellery and flowers. The floral theme dominates both the background and the motifs on the saris; vibrant colours come together in harmony in the paintings.
