Art Street in Coimbatore Vizha is a merger of sustainability and creative expression

A curious spectator is examining the piece. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Sustain to Retain – Sure, Coimbatore will be the theme of this year’s Art Street in Vizag (formerly known by its Tamil name Oviya Sandhai), where sustainability meets creativity.

“We constantly challenge ourselves to remain relevant and innovative,” says P Ashwin Kumar, head of Art Street, for this edition. “This year, we are showcasing around 2,000 artworks from over 100 artists. , will focus on trends such as resin art, digital art, 3D installations and upcycled sculptures. The art is constantly evolving, and we push ourselves to keep up with new technologies and ideas.

A paper artwork published by Deepak. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Installations made from discarded CDs, plastic bottles and other everyday waste can be found. “Art Street will showcase the potential of repurposing,” he explains. “These installations demonstrate that even the things we throw away can be given new life. Each display will be a reminder of the waste we generate every day and its far-reaching impact on the environment, wildlife and the health of future generations.

For over a decade, Art Street has provided a platform for both emerging and experienced artists. This year, the event will include works of sand artists from government school students, children with learning disabilities and women empowerment groups. Competitions organized at the beginning of the year will provide an opportunity to young artists to showcase their skills. “Our aim is to discover emerging artists and promote endangered art forms like tribal art, Pattachitra, Gond art and Kerala mural works,” says Kumar.

T. Mathiniraiselvan, an artist with 40 years of experience, sees it as a link between the past and the future. “There was a time when artists used to paint advertisements. This practice ended with the rise of digital printing. Such events give us a chance to reconnect with the roots of our art,” he says.

A diverse collection of paintings featured in previous Art Street exhibitions. , Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

For artist Sabari Girija, art reflects the rhythm of life. “Life, like art, demands continuity. Each brushstroke reflects the perseverance required to shape our journey. Art, like life, is a continuous process, where each step builds on the last to create something meaningful,” she says. For K Akil Sri, the exposure gave him the confidence to pursue a career in the arts.

Art Street will be more than an exhibition; It will celebrate creativity. “Artists invest months in preparation and public appreciation fuels our passion,” says Girija. “Recognizing our work and effort behind each piece propels us forward. A little appreciation makes a huge difference in an artiste’s journey.”

On November 30 and December 1 from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm at the Race Course.