Chhanda Sahu is an emerging name in the art scene of India. With a sincere approach to her distinct pattern of painting she has caught the attention of discerning art lovers. As her creative output continues to grow steadily, her commitment to perfection gets all the more reinforced.

In her artistic pursuit Chhanda uses the usual mediums of oil, acrylic, and water colour on canvas, oil sheet and paper. A study of her paintings makes one get a refreshing feel of nature.  The dominating theme of most of her paintings appears to be loneliness which she explores in different manifestations of nature.

AN INNATE PASSION

Studying nature has remained an innate passion with Chhanda since her very childhood. As a child while walking in her garden she used to observe tiny birds drinking honey from flowers, bathing in water, jumping and dancing on leaves and swinging with the branches of the trees The rhythms of dancing rain on the leaves used to attract  her mind. She realised that nature was God’s greatest creation.

“I admire nature and natural beauty. I have grown up feeling the nature from my heart. From sunrise to sunset, I feel greatly each moment - from one to another,” says Chhanda.

The poetry of Rabindra Nath Tagore contributed significantly in the shaping of her approach to the art form. It brought to her intuitive view points on several facets of life. Tagore’s language and music motivated her to think in a new and sensitive way.

THE FORMAL RIGOUR

Her artistry also passed through rigours of formal training as she studied for her Diploma in Fine Arts (with specialisation in painting) at the Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh. This stint helped her master the grammar of the form which went on to enrich her artistic renditions. She also completed her post-graduate degree in history.

She Started participating in group shows in the year 2000.Her paintings also continued appearing in many subsequent group shows, the latest one being at Gurgaon in 2007. Her art catalogue, got published in 2005.

MORE THAN A SPOUSE

Her husband Mr. Pradyot Sahu, being an established painter himself, has acted being more than a spouse to her, in the development of her career as a painter. He has been making his contributions in acrylic and digital mediums for the last 15 years and has participated in many art seminars abroad. With such a background Chhanda considers herself lucky enough to find the necessary inspiration and guidance from him in redefining her role as a  painter.

“When we discuss our paintings, he as a friend and art critic helps me work better and enrich my skills better,” says Chhanda. However theme wise the works of Chhanda and Pradyot seem to belong to two different worlds. While Chanda blends realism with philosophy, her 'other half' dwells on abstract portrayals.

Chhanda considers her mother also to be another source of inspiration. She taught her to see nicely and think beautifully.

APPRECIATIONS GALORE

After Chhanda’ works were displayed on the web she started getting appreciative feedbacks from art lovers in various countries such as the USA, Italy, Spain and Denmark. She has got noticed in the art community. It has gone a long way in bringing further motivations to her.

From her journey so far, there are enough indications that she is poised to scale newer heights as an outstanding painter in the years to come. Oriya Nari wishes her a bright journey ahead and looks forward to a greater recognition of her creative talent.