Chennai: Proving that age is no bar for pursuing one’s passion and excelling in it, Govindaraj L (72), had his artworks on display at an exhibition in Egmore Railway Station recently.
The Chrompet Radha Nagar resident’s paintings that ranged from temples and trains to landscapes, came in for a lot of praise.
News Today meets up with the artist, who also takes online music classes.
Excerpts from his interview:
Q) How did your journey in the art field begin?
A) I started drawing at the age of six. Although art is my passion, I have also learnt to play musical instruments. But after I started working for a bank, I didn’t get time to pursue either of it. So, I quit my job in 1999 and started a music academy, which I later shut, as I moved to Chrompet.
Q) What do you prefer? Art or music?
A) Music is my profession and art is my passion. It is tough to choose one.
Q) What are the instruments you play?
A) I play the harmonium, keyboard, piano, accordion and Hawaiian guitar.
Q) What are you currently involved in?
A) I conduct online music training sessions for students. I also take art classes for youngsters in-and-around the neighbourhood.
Q) Are music and art stress-busters?
A) Yes. When I was running the academy, I had many students who used to work in the IT field. They used to say that the sessions helped them cope with stress.
Q) Your thoughts on the art expo.
A) It was my sixth such exhibition. I was happy since the railway officials approached me and appreciated my work.
Govindaraj can be reached at 98402 49380.