NATIONAL8 (Spotlight Weekly]

Quest for Peace

English artist Phil Privett's works convey a fervent hope for better days ahead

By A CORRESSPONDENT

If works of art contain the message and beauty inherent in volumes of books, then the paintings and sculptures exhibited at the British Council by Phil Privett provide an encyclopedic depiction of the perennial conflict between peace and violence in human beings. Based on Buddhist and Hindu mythology, Privett has encompassed various social phenomenons of the times.

Artist Privett : Art for peace

In his 16 paintings and the silver chessboard, Privett has tried to explore ways of advancing peace and harmony in society, providing a glimpse into his anguish at the violent events that shook Nepal last year.

"I hope that the forthcoming year will be different than the last. Every human being wants to have peace in their surroundings," said Privett, who has been living in Nepal for more than five years painting and sculpting exquisite works of art.

To express his inner feelings on contemporary society, Privett has used acrylic, oil and holy colors. The combination of colors provides a powerful reflection of the upheavals that have shaken society. Almost every work on display carries a fervent prayer for peace.

Organized by the British Council, Privett's solo art exhibition explains the Buddhist and Hindu philosophies of peace. Some of his paintings were created during his stay in Varanasi, India. As Nepal fuses Buddhist and Hindu culture, the artist has understood the value of the setting while embarking on his work.

"I have done almost all the works in Nepal, although some of the paintings were created while I was in Varanasi," said Privett. "My paintings are based on the Buddhist and Hindu philosophy of peace."

Privett uses the face of the Buddha to give expression to the ideal of peace. His paintings of temples convey the importance he attaches to religious harmony. "The artist has sought to bring out the message of peace and harmony at a very appropriate time," said a spectator.

Privett has organized a couple of other exhibitions in the past and wants to donate proceeds from sales to the renovation of the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan, which were demolished by the Taliban authorities last year. "I want to forget the past with the hope of a better future," said Privett.

The silver chessboard, which he has crafted through patience and hard work, is a major highlight of the exhibition. Its description of various components of fire, soil, water and air conveys how oneness with the elements of nature can provide succor and sustenance during these turbulent times. n