Native Krea’s vision of ‘reviving, redefining and revolutionising Indian art’ creates a movement through unique visual art that exudes the essence of the Native Soul…writes Prof. Geetha Upadhyaya, OBE
Walking into the lush surroundings of Native Krea’s majestic art gallery in Guindy, Chennai, was a unique experience.
The reputed visual artist and sculptor, Shaan had a deep-rooted passion for art, encouraging him to initiate Native Krea in Chennai, a startup that positions itself as a voice for art and artists.
Having spent his early childhood in Rameshwaram, the tip of India, Shaan moved to Madurai, where he had his first encounter with paintings. Although his early artistic talent was in performing arts, his love for painting engulfed him, and he never looked back.
While he had a deep desire for art forms in different media, Shaan was particularly interested in literary art forms and experimented with various art designs for nearly a decade.
Long hours of discussion and support from his mentors and senior artists furthered the company and its strong team, which included his wife, Mrs Thalitha and associate, Ms Vaishanavi.
Shaan always believed in ‘3 Cs’: consent, credit and compensation, to build a beautiful collaborative platform that brings together native artists and craftsmen to promote native artistry through innovative strategies and technological interventions.
Native Krea’s vision of ‘reviving, redefining and revolutionising Indian art’ creates a movement through unique visual art that exudes the essence of the Native Soul. Skilled native artists create an incredible visual language, depicting stories of a glorious past, thereby bringing the historical significance of traditional art to the forefront through iconic work.
Artistic masterpieces are embedded with rich stories, strokes of colour and endless knowledge of traditional and ethnic teachings. Diving deep into the literary abyss of the native land, the art narrates stories through composition achieved through a synergy of research, authentic artistic expression and folklore.
Native Krea works with upcoming artists across South India and masters in the art form. Native Krea currently accepts around five to six artists per year into their space. Some artists express interest in art shows or may reach out through social media or by joining Native Krea. Their work is evaluated, recommendations are made, and training is provided. Native Krea’s artistic and cultural space is replete with books on various topics and also engages in extensive heritage research.
Apart from paintings, Native Krea also works on sculptures, both wood and metal.
‘Arterior’, which brings the essence of art into design space, making it artistically aesthetic, is yet another part of Native Krea’s work.
The art economy is huge on the global stage, feels Shaan. However, in Tamil Nadu, the enthusiasm for world-class art is still nascent. Giving art its due status on the global stage is something Shaan is passionate about
Native Krea is also setting up local hubs and miniature art studios across Tamil Nadu, with the ultimate aim of establishing local hubs and an art village in South India to promote native artists and build a global presence. This would also include a museum and entertain art enthusiasts from across the globe!
Recently, Native Krea contributed to Design Democracy, an exclusive décor event. In the coming days, Native Krea will be participating in the Indian Art Fair, Art Mumbai, and the Finale in Cochin.
Shaan feels that every day brings a new challenge, but the main ones are the need for new buyers and more curators. He added that today’s generation seems to have minimal exposure to art. There is likely a need for innovative initiatives to promote enthusiasm among the younger generation, increase the international representation of South Asian art, and simultaneously focus on documenting South Asian culture.
An inspiring story of passion and commitment to the arts is Native Krea!
Don’t miss visiting Native Krea during your Chennai stint.
The contact details are :
Native Krea
1A, Defence Officer Colony (Opp. to Military Hospital, Ekkattuthangal,
Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600032
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +91-9500232544
Website:www.nativekrea.com
