|
|
For Foot Painter, N. Ramakrishnan his right foot is special. Take one look
at him and you'd be self-indulgent to contemplate pity. For 31-year-old Ramakrishnan,
the world is a canvas, even if physically his movement will always be restricted.
The third child born to teacher parents, Ramakrishnan could not attend school
due to his "handicap". But by the time he was 12, he realised he had total control
over his foot. He could move chess coins and make towers of blocks. Eventually,
Ramakrishnan also developed a fascination for colours. His uncle, an architect
encouraged him to paint on egg shells with his foot and that was how his journey
began.
|
|
For Ramakrishnan, the day begins at 8.30 a.m. He needs help for routine chores.
But when he paints. He's in control. Like everyone else, he too has a holiday.
"He makes it a point not to paint on Sundays, and spend time with the rest of
the family," says his sister Vijaya. Ramakrishnan's family has been a source of
strength. In 1991, Ramakrishnan was selected by the Association of Mouth
and Foot Painting as a student member. He enjoys painting landscapes, he has
also tried his foot at a few abstract paintings. "I like sceneries " says
this self - taught artist shyly. The lighter hues on his palette reflect the person
he is - fun loving and light hearted. Apart from his paint brush, bollywood
is a big attraction. Ramakrishnan says with a smile, " I love Rani Mukherjee
and Kajol". Among the men, Amitabh Bachan and Aamir Khan are his favourites.
"He often gathers inspiration from books and magazines," says his sister. His
canvas includes abstract impressions of Ganesha. A confirmed art buff, Ramakrishnan
enjoy going to exhibitions in Mumbai. "He goes to the city at least once a week
to look at works by other artists. Ramakrishnan's speech is slurred and difficult
to understand but his warm smile and the way his eyes light up when he meets and
communicates with people make up for the words not said, not understood. Ramakrishnan
has many friends in his neighbourhood, and they come in all age groups. "He is
also known for playing a great game of chess. Our neighbours refuse to
play against him because they know they will lose", says Vijaya. |
