In the vibrant tapestry of Oman’s burgeoning art scene, a new icon is emerging, her brushstrokes imbued with the rich hues of heritage and the soulful whispers of human experience. Nanda, a name that resonates with the promise of tomorrow, is more than an artist; she is a storyteller, a cultural bridge, and a captivating voice translating life’s intricate dance onto canvas.

Nanda’s journey is as colorful and varied as the palettes she employs. Hailing from the verdant, culture-rich lands of Northern Malabar, she carries the very spirit of her homeland within her heart. This deep-rooted connection to her origins is not just an influence; it’s the bedrock of her artistic philosophy. Her early schooling in the bustling city of Bangalore laid the foundation, followed by formative years at ISM and Bhavans Muscat in Oman, where the Gulf’s vibrant energy undoubtedly added new dimensions to her perspective. Her academic pursuit continued at Christ Bangalore, collecting wisdom and memories that would later inform her unique artistic lens.

Her intrinsic passion for the arts and literature truly found its direction at the prestigious School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada, and later at Alliance University, Bangalore. These institutions didn’t just hone her technical skills; they nurtured a profound understanding of aesthetics, design, and the power of narrative. It is this unique blend of architectural discipline and literary depth that sets Nanda apart.

The Soul of an Artist, The Eye of a Reader

Nanda is, at her core, a vivid reader and an artist by soul. This dual passion is not merely coincidental; it’s symbiotic. She possesses an extraordinary ability to weave literature through her art, allowing each piece to speak volumes about human emotions, societal nuances, and her distinctive vision of the world. Her art isn’t just about what you see; it’s about what you feel, what you reflect upon, and the silent narratives that unfold within each intricate detail. This deeply intellectual and emotionally resonant approach is a testament to her profound understanding of the human condition and her commitment to exploring it through her craft.

A Masterpiece Born of Reverence: The Naga Bhagavathi Theyyam

Recently, during her time in Muscat, Nanda embarked on a project that encapsulates the very essence of her artistic ethos: a stunning painting of a Theyyam. This isn’t just any painting; it’s a profound ode to North Malabar’s vibrant tradition, a celebration of a ritualistic art form that is nothing short of divine. Guided by the insightful mentorship of Ms. Bindu from Talent Space Oman, Nanda’s brush brought to life the awe-inspiring presence of the Naga Bhagavathi Theyyam.

For an artist, approaching Theyyam is an act of deep reverence. Nanda shares, “While starting out with this piece, I was warned that I could not afford to make any mistakes, as this was essentially god I was drawing; each and every line that they so carefully draw on their face has a story behind it.” This speaks volumes about the meticulousness and respect she brings to her work. The face of Theyyam, with its intricate patterns and profound symbolism, is a sacred canvas in itself. Nanda’s ability to capture this complexity, this sacred geometry, on an acrylic canvas (approximately 90 x 50 cm) is a testament to her skill, patience, and profound connection to the subject.

The Echo of a Childhood Memory: Witnessing the Divine

The inspiration for this magnificent piece stems from a deeply personal and transformative childhood memory. Nanda recounts her first Theyyam experience as a ten-year-old, back home for the holidays, seeking respite from the sweltering countryside heat. Her grandparents took her to their tharavadu, their ancestral home, where generations had gathered, and there, amidst a crowd of blood relatives, she witnessed the magic unfold.

“He leaped into the air, dancing around like a madman, hair whipping around, people parting like the sea every time he got carried away in his trance.” This vivid description captures the raw power and otherworldly presence of the Theyyam. For a young Nanda, observing a figure in such lavish, heavy attire move with such boundless spirit was an enigma. When her grandmother simply stated, “it was god,” Nanda believed it wholeheartedly. “There’s nothing else it could be,” she reflects, highlighting the profound impact of that moment.

A vital aspect of Theyyam is the opportunity to interact with the deity, to seek blessings. Nanda found herself drawn before the towering figure, whose headdress cast a formidable shadow in the heat. “He took my hands and asked for my name, and for a second his eyes seemed to have glazed over, like he was called to somewhere else.” This intimate encounter, where the Theyyam spoke of her future, left an indelible mark, even as her young mind was captivated by the intricate lines and patterns on the divine face. In that brief, ethereal moment, she glimpsed the human vessel beneath the divine manifestation, a revelation that shaped her perspective on god and faith.

Challenging Perceptions: The Theyyam’s Enduring Legacy

Nanda eloquently articulates the unique nature of Theyyam: “It’s hard to understand what exactly the theyyam is if you’re not familiar with it. The concept of art and performance being a vessel for the divine is seen throughout all religions, and the theyyam is no such exception.” However, she emphasizes its distinctiveness. “It’s living, breathing proof of a thousand years of rebellion and of faith.”

Unlike idealized, distant deities often placed on pedestals, the Theyyam, with its “favourite offerings were alcohol and meat,” and its revelry “in his existence amongst his people,” challenged Nanda’s youthful understanding of divinity. “This interpretation of a god… completely changed the way I viewed god and religion. Even as I grew older to question religion, I could not deny what I saw that day.” This profound insight into the accessible, humanized aspect of divinity, delivered through a powerful performance art, resonates deeply within her work.

Nanda’s Vision: A Dance of Colors, Feelings, and Timeless Tales

In every line she draws and every word she pens, Nanda tells the story of life as she sees it—a vibrant dance of colors, raw feelings, and timeless tales. Her art is not merely an aesthetic display; it is a profound commentary, an exploration of human experience, and a celebration of cultural heritage.

Her ability to translate the abstract concept of divinity and rebellion into a tangible, awe-inspiring artwork like the Naga Bhagavathi Theyyam showcases not only her exceptional technical prowess but also her deep empathy and storytelling gift. Nanda is poised to become a significant force in the art world, painting not just images, but narratives that resonate with universal truths, inviting viewers to explore their own emotions and connections to the rich tapestry of life. Keep an eye on this emerging talent; her canvas is just beginning to unfold.