Many shapes of molten lava

It isn't everyday an artist manages to infuse life into metal chunks. Which is why veteran sculptor Mrinalini Mukherjee's latest works titled Lava is worth a watch, writes Namita Kohli.

It isn't everyday an artist manages to infuse life into metal chunks. Which is why veteran sculptor Mrinalini Mukherjee's latest works titled Lava is worth a watch.

Mukherjee manages to mould her medium — a traditional one in the age of fibre-glass and ceramic sculptures — to suit her message instantly evoking an imagery of hot molten lava wrapped in foliage.

In some of the 'standing' sculptures, you can notice the delicate leaf drooping with the weight of the lava, but stopping short of touching the ground. In the others, the 'molten stuff' manages to spread across to take the shape of landscapes in the works that hang on the gallery's white walls.

The 61-year-old — daughter of veteran artists Benode Behari and Leela Mukherjee — says her inspiration draws from nature.

"Mrinalini is one of our important sculptors; her works are all about spontaneity and are very cutting edge," adds gallerist Renu Modi.

On till May 15, at Gallery Espace, 16, New Friends Colony.