Earthlings represent many-layered character of human relationships

The works of artist B Jaya Lakshmi are a unique blend of the old and new. Being one of the few Indian painters from to have adopted encaustic art as her chosen medium, she has perfected a technique first used by the Fayyum Mummy portraitures of ancient Egypt.

The current exhibition of encaustic artworks by artist B Jaya Lakshmi, uses treated tree bark and beeswax, resins as their medium.

They exhibit a high quotient of expressivity, by their choice of material, where the surfaces are in themselves a unique basis for presenting the relationship of art with its subject matter.

The 32 works display the application of layers of wax, not just as a surface treatment but as luminous globules, that are contained in a deeply grooved under layer representing the many-layered character of human relationships, that we experience along the course of our lives. This art precludes longevity that outlives any other form of artistic display as it has a lifespan that outclasses any other medium.

The works have a unique complexity of execution as they require a high degree of exactitude to achieve perfection.

The works are entirely organic except for the layers of pigmentation on the surface and their perfection lies in achieving the right melting point of the wax.

The works on display are the end product of years of experimentation to achieve a level of excellence wherein art and exactitude are fine-tuned to a commendable degree.

The canvases have received widespread appreciation both in India and abroad not only among collectors and viewers but also the artist fraternity and established art forums, such as museums and art galleries.

• Event: Earthlings
• Date: 24 to 30 December
• Venue: Jehangir Art Gallery, M.G. Road. 161-B, M.G. Road. Kala Ghoda, Mumbai 400001
• Timing: 11am to 7pm.