Bringing out the self

By Madhushala Senaratne

Self-portrait	Jude’s maiden bronze creation

Family values can be portrayed in many forms and for young sculptor Jude Taddewus, his first solo exhibition provides the perfect opportunity to do so. Titled “Probing the self”, the exhibition consists of a range of portraits of the artist, his family and other elements close to him.

A final year student of the University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo, Jude believes this exhibition would help him establish himself as an artist in this competitive field.

Having previously exhibited his work in various other local exhibitions such as the Kala Pola open-air art fair and the State Art Festival that provide ample opportunities for budding artists to promote their work and meet other artists, Jude is no stranger to exhibitions. However, he believes, that a solo exhibition is tough and more demanding.

The exhibition revolves around the theme ‘self’. “The exhibits depict all things that are close to me or have been associated with my life all this time,” he said, adding that the exhibits include a sculpture of himself, his son and family. “There are around 15 to 18 pieces, a few life-sized ones too,” he said. The theme was to demonstrate family values and strong bonds that exist between those close to you.

The bronze sculpture, also one of the exhibits, is significant he feels. “This is what might be expected of a professional and not a final year university student. Not many students have sculpted in bronze,” he said, adding that, this particular work required a lot of self-study.

“Probing the Self” will be held from April 25 to 27 at the Lionel Wendt. Entrance is free.