FRANCIS ANTONY
KODANKANDATH
Francis Antony Kodankandath is a self-taught painter based in Thrissur, Kerala, India. He began to paint inspired by his late father, who exposed him to local masterpieces from a very early age. Kodankandah embraces traditional materials and techniques from Asia–such as khadi and origami–combined with Western mediums, as a powerful commentary on the importance of maintaining harmonious communication and peace across cultures. Originally employed by Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom struggles of India, khadi is a hand-spun natural fiber, which the artist utilizes as a painting surface, after treating it with indigenous techniques. The cloth is stretched between two rolls and painted with acrylic paint. In another recent series, Kodankandah creates origami boats with handmade paper and applies them unfolded onto the canvas. The triangle shape is ubiquitous in his narratives, as a symbol of the dynamic equilibrium between God, the human race, and nature, and the divine forces that govern the universe. His work attests to the transformative power of creation while evoking a sense of unity and equilibrium in a complex world.
Kodankandath has held 55 solo exhibitions in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Among the most notable are the NY United Nations headquarters (USA); the Japanese International Cultural Cooperation Agency (Tokyo, Japan); the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (Italy); the University de-Joseph Fourier (Paris); the Newman Centre University of New Orleans (USA). He also exhibited at the London, Florence, and Austria biennials. He was granted the Xth Florence Biennale Medal, the Indian National Akademi Award, and the State Akademi Award.
FRANCIS ANTONY KODANKANDATH ON
My artwork aims to bring a harmonious balance between God, nature, and humanity, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and forms of aboriginal art from around the world. I incorporate origami as an integral part of my work, symbolizing the transformative power of creation. The influence of Mahatma Gandhi’s life, as the father of our nation, has shaped my artistic journey, emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance and promoting peace. My art also serves as a commentary on current social, political, and cultural issues, engaging with materials such as Khadi, maps, and old newspapers to reflect and provoke thought. Ultimately, my work seeks to convey the interconnectedness of all things and evoke a sense of unity and equilibrium in a complex world. For inquiries, sales@agora-gallery.com
