Latest news with #Arakkal
The Hindu
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Yusuf Arakkal retrospective showcases the artist's journey over four decades
As one steps into the white-walled, high-ceilinged hall on the first floor of the Durbar Hall Art Centre, the Last Supper I at the far end screams 'look at me' and 'keep looking at me.' It is very hard to take one's eyes off the six-feet-by-eight-feet oil on canvas painting. Paintings from the late Yusuf Arakkal's Christ series are on display on all the walls. If The Pieta, Gethsemane Prayer, The Prayer, The Baptism induce a sense of peace, The Crucifixion, The Resurrection and Crucifixion and Resurrection are moving. While some of the works in the series mark a departure from the conventional imagery (Caucasian) with a Christ with marked Afro-Asian features, some of the works veer toward the conventional. Celebration of Solitude and Humanity, as a retrospective ought to, is a comprehensive look at not just Arakkal, the artist, but also his preoccupations as a human being — it is an intersectionality of aspects that shaped his sensibility. We get to travel with him, as he evolves in his practice and finds his individualistic, artistic idioms. Through 40 years of Yusuf's works The works span 40-odd years from the 1980s to his demise in 2016, marking his creative trajectory. By no means diminutive in size, imagination, creativity or execution, the show is, 'wow-inspiring'. An introductory note informs us of Arakkal's evolution as an artist. It tells us how despite an early bent towards abstraction, he went on to use figures as his primary mode of expression. Abstract as some of the works are, look carefully and one sees more. The retrospective was first mounted at Bengaluru in 2022, after what Sara Arakkal, Arakkal's wife, art curator and dealer says, 'This is a major show for me. A lot of preparation and studying on how to put together a retrospective. A year's worth of planning went into it. We were, after all, revisiting almost 50 years of Yusuf's works.' This was also a way of showing works that were 'stuck at home'. Like the current show, the Bengaluru showcase put on display his entire oeuvre (excluding those in private collections) be it paintings or sculptures wrought in a variety of media such as copper, steel, aluminium, and terracotta. An introduction and a revisit It is an entire textbook for practitioners of abstract works, a lesson in being intentional with their practice. The absence of conventional visual elements does not have to be chaotic, that the 'abstract art' can communicate. This 'homecoming' show may well be an introduction of the artist to a generation, and a revisiting for those who have known him and are familiar with his works. Although she would like a showcase at the Kochi Muziris Biennale (KMB), Sara says, 'The commercial aspect is secondary, my main aim is that I want people to see Yusuf's works.' The canvases are by no means easy, they seem to be the result of deep reflection and introspection. As one walks through the gallery one gets a sense of the artist — how the very personal is also political. The works on show are from the series Insolitude, The Street, Urban Uncertainties, Ganga, Linear Expressions, Wall, Inner Fire, Kite, The Child, Tribute to Masters, Basheer, besides some of his earlier works and later works. Social commentary While some of the paintings derive from the human condition or rather the isolation of being human, the others are social commentary like the triptych, serigraph War, Guernica reoccurs, a hat doff to Picasso's Guernica but placed within the Indian context of the Godhra, the starting point of the 2002 riots. Done in 2003, it communicates the discomfort the artist would have felt. The paintings of the Tribute to Masters series are testimony to his cosmopolitanism besides showing how aware he was of the art and artists of the world. Others from the series like (Francis) Bacon's Man, Boy and Priest, Francis Bacon's Study of Lucien Freud, Toulouse Lautrec, and Modgiliani for example show how he was an artist of the world. Then there are the Faces of Creativity, the pen and ink drawings of 135 contemporary Indian artists, which shows his engagement and interest in the works of peers. The sculptures, from the Wheel, Chair and Flight series, show an artist who is unafraid to explore various media and means of expression. That gives the viewer an insight into their breadth of vision and being able to articulate their creativity. For instance the Arto Mobile, a copper hued 1956 Fiat Millicento placed at the entrance of the gallery, the dull orange a contrast to the grey of the rainy day. The car with an armour plate-like metal covering of art, according to the accompanying note, brings together elements of the Harappan and Egyptian civilizations. The relief work has images of the wheel, hieroglyphics and the surface of the car reminiscent of the planned lines of the Harappan cities, for instance. The automobile thus becomes a vehicle connecting the two, in a manner of speaking. If you have not yet caught the show, this is your cue. It will be well worth your time. The show, part of the KLKA Retrospective of Eminent Artist Series - VIII, presented by the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi and Sara Arakkal Galerie concludes on June 24
Khaleej Times
25-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Arakkal Gold & Diamonds opens its largest and most innovative showroom in Sharjah
Arakkal Gold and Diamonds, renowned for its heritage, exquisite craftsmanship, and commitment to customer trust, is poised to unveil its largest and innovative showroom at Safari Mall, Sharjah, on April 27, 2025. This grand opening marks a significant milestone in Arakkal's journey as a global luxury jewellery brand, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation to deliver an elevated customer experience. To commemorate this landmark occasion, Arakkal has introduced over 500 kg of new gold designs, curated exclusively for 2025. Ranging from timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, these new collections promise an exceptional piece for every discerning taste and cherished tradition. "This showroom is more than just a retail space – it's a reflection of our legacy and a celebration of our future," said Thanveer C P, chairman, at the press conference. "We've poured our heart into every detail to ensure it mirrors the elegance and grandeur our customers associate with the Arakkal name." The grand opening in Sharjah sets the stage for a year of significant expansion. In August 2025, Arakkal Gold and Diamonds will unveil a new showroom in Abu Dhabi, further solidifying its presence in the UAE. Looking ahead, the brand is preparing for a strategic expansion across the GCC, with new stores launching in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar by the end of 2025. Building on this regional success, Arakkal Gold and Diamonds will make its much-anticipated entry into the European market by 2026, bringing its signature blend of timeless craftsmanship and contemporary elegance to a global audience. "At Arakkal, we're not just selling jewellery – we're curating experiences," said Thahir Mohamed, managing director addressing the media. "From the moment a customer walks in, they're immersed in an environment of warmth, sophistication, and trust. Our new Sharjah showroom combines intricate designs, personalised service, and the best value for money – all while delivering collections that are timeless, trendsetting, and crafted with heart." With the launch of the Sharjah showroom, customers can anticipate:
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Arakkal Gold & Diamonds opens its largest and most innovative showroom in Sharjah
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates – Arakkal Gold and Diamonds, known for its heritage, craftsmanship, and trusted legacy, is set to unveil its largest and most innovative showroom at Safari Mall, Sharjah, on April 27th, 2025. This grand opening marks a key milestone in Arakkal's journey as a global luxury jewellery brand, blending tradition and modernity to enhance customer experience. To commemorate this landmark occasion, Arakkal has introduced over 500 kilograms of new gold designs, curated exclusively for 2025. Ranging from timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, these new collections promise an exceptional piece for every discerning taste and cherished tradition. "This showroom is more than just a retail space – it's a reflection of our legacy and a celebration of our future," said Mr. Thanveer C.P., Chairman, at the press conference. "We've poured our heart into every detail to ensure it mirrors the elegance and grandeur our customers associate with the Arakkal name." The Sharjah grand opening kicks off a year of major growth for Arakkal Gold and Diamonds, with a new showroom launching in Abu Dhabi this August. By the end of 2025, the brand will expand into Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, followed by its European debut in 2026. "At Arakkal, we're not just selling jewellery – we're curating experiences," said Mr. Thahir Mohamed, Managing Director addressing the media. "From the moment a customer walks in, they're immersed in an environment of warmth, sophistication, and trust. Our new Sharjah showroom combines intricate designs, personalized service, and the best value for money – all while delivering collections that are timeless, trendsetting, and crafted with heart." With the launch of the Sharjah showroom, customers can anticipate: A world-class showroom experience featuring immersive design, a curated ambiance, and personalized service. A wide selection of meticulously crafted gold, diamond, and precious gemstone collections. Exclusive inaugural offers and exciting surprise giveaways during the launch week. Exceptional value for money, ensuring quality and trust in every exquisite piece. *Source: AETOSWire Contact Details: Sharanya Nair – Ad&M PR
