TFOD Profile Of The Week: Vinita Vasu, New Delhi

In a career spanning over a decade, self-taught artist Vinita Vasu has dabbled in myriad types of paintings, across varied media. She paints her thoughts on walls, on fabrics, on canvas, paper, fiber-glass, on bottles and boards, and even on pebbles and stones. Born in Kerala, and brought up in Delhi, – Vasu’s art encompasses the same diversity.  Right from childhood, Vinita had an inclination towards art, topping all art competitions she participated in, during her school years. However, despite best efforts, she could not pursue a degree in fine art education. 

But the talent was hers to hone – for such raw artistic flair and unbridled creativity are anyway not taught in art schools! Besides, the untrained expression also lends her art a distinctive freshness and purity. As Vasu herself explains: “In my works colours, shapes and patterns are used to celebrate the journey of life.” Each of her creations emerges from the depths of her soul, her inner consciousness. “Although my consciousness is the fundamental source of all my creations, it reflects the phenomenal visual experience of body, mind and soul.”

Besides abstract expressions in black-and-white, with ink on paper and intensely coloured graphics on pebbles, Vinita Vasu explores the subject of womanhood, with much passion. In a series of themed paintings called ‘Feminine Fables’, a woman is depicted as a pillar of strength and a beacon of positivity, who conquers many challenges and emerges victorious, battling against all odds. Her multifaceted role in contemporary society sees her bringing forth a fresh perception into life and living. And that is the spirit Vasu celebrates.

Even the women with their heads covered by the traditional ghunghat do not represent their subservience, according to Vasu. “The ghunghat is not only a form of giving respect, but the woman who wears it also commands respect. These are women with hopes, desires and dreams of their own.” Of course, there are restrictions and limitations for women in society, and even today we have not been able to set ourselves free from the shackles imposed by society. “There are bondages of various kinds that women everywhere face. In Delhi, where I come from, women cannot walk free at night without fear. But I look at the positive side, at the hope that these women bear rather than dwelling on the dark side.” Therefore the women in Vasu’s paintings despite being seen in domestic settings and enclosed by walls, depict a powerful, sensuous personality. 

In the artworld, over the centuries, we have seen many artists explore the face and form of the woman. Her eyes, expressions, emotions – all are handled in unique ways by different artists. They are thus the subjects of great paintings, and the muses of great painters. Vinita Vasu’s rendition of the woman dwells on her face – and the woman characters never cry, never give up, never complain. Vivid with positivity and brimming with passion, they seem to convey happiness and hope.

The colourful pebbles narrate their own story; as do the black-and-white pen-and-ink renderings. Vasu’s creativity knows no bounds, and translates some of her artworks into décor or furniture items! The coloured pebble stones thus are seen in a smaller arrangement that works as a tealight holder, while getting composed into a large and beautiful panel for a space separator. The monochromatic pen-and-inks are thought-provoking expressions of Vasu’s mind and soul, perhaps; with strong and well-defined content represented in an abstract format.

TFOD - The Future Of Design wishes the versatile artist more success in her creative pursuits!