Artist Vivi Jojo Vellukunnel’s water-inspired works will be showcased at an art party in Kumarakom

Water has been a constant source of inspiration for artist Vivi Jojo Vellukunnel. Having grown up watching the many moods of the Kodoor river in Kottayam, Vivi’s deepest creative impulses have been shaped by water. A series of 15 abstract paintings by him, will be showcased at a one-night art party, ‘The Mind of Water’ at Kumarakom.

Why a lakeside party and not a showcase at a gallery? “Honestly it is an experiment. I feel that an art party would mean greater engagement with the works and open conversations around them. Viewers would be able to form connections with the works as opposed to exhibiting at a conventional gallery setting,” says Vivi. 

The works are in mixed media — he uses ink, acrylic, colour pencils, oil pastels. The show will have over 50 limited edition prints too. The works essentially explore the infinite memory of water — how it might think, feel and reflect. Having learnt canoeing at the age of 15, he has seen various facets of water, its power, gentleness, the depth and calmness. His own experiences and memories intermingle with the theme in these “hydroscapes” as Vivi calls them. The collection also features his painting ‘Octopus’, which draws parallels between the creature and the unfathomable nature of water. 

Though an architect, Vivi’s heart was in art and he has been painting since the age of five. Later, he honed his talent under the mentorship of artist and teacher T R Suresh and artist Joseph Chakola. 

This is Vivi’s second solo exhibition. The first one, Mitya, dwelled on Nature, in 2018. 

The party will include a DJ, food and drinks. Though initially conceived as an “invite only” event, Vivi felt it would be best to open it to anyone who would like to take a look at the works. The works will be on sale. 

On August 2 at Backwater Ripples, Kumarakom, from 6pm to 11pm.