Vizag-based artist Moka Vijay Kumar has made a significant impact with his unique artistic approach by creating over 60 portraits of national and international celebrities, politicians, and business figures using only millets. This unconventional medium has garnered attention not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for the message it conveys. With the United Nations declaring this year as the international year of millets, Vijay Kumar’s artwork serves as a powerful means to raise awareness about the importance of millets in society.
During the recent G20 conference held in Telangana, the Ministers of Agriculture Department from 38 countries were presented with their portraits adorned with millets. This gesture aimed to highlight the significance of millets as a sustainable and nutritious food source. Additionally, portraits were created for prominent political figures, including the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, as well as the Prime Minister and the Union Agriculture Minister.
Vijay Kumar’s millet artistry involves an intricate and time-consuming process. Each portrait takes approximately four days to complete. He primarily utilizes various types of millets such as Ragulu (finger millet), Arikalu (kodo millet), Sajjalu (pearl millet), Gantlu, and Samalu (little millet). The artistic process begins with drawing an outline of the desired image on a German-made sheet using a pencil. Carefully pasting millet grains onto the sheet follows this step. To ensure longevity and protection, the artwork is sprayed with pesticide and placed in a specially crafted frame designed to prevent air infiltration.
Vijay Kumar’s dedication to his craft and the ingenuity behind his millet portraits have not gone unnoticed. His artwork was prominently showcased at the Investors’ Summit held in Visakhapatnam, garnering further recognition and appreciation. Through his creations, Vijay Kumar successfully bridges the worlds of art and agriculture, offering a unique perspective on the importance of millets and sustainable food practices.
The choice of millets as a medium for his portraits aligns with the global efforts to promote and recognize the nutritional and ecological value of these ancient grains. Millets are known for their resilience, adaptability, and ability to thrive in diverse environmental conditions. They are rich in essential nutrients and have a low environmental impact, making them a sustainable alternative to other cereal crops. By using millets as the primary material for his artwork, Vijay Kumar emphasizes their significance as a vital resource for food security and nutrition.
Furthermore, Vijay Kumar’s millet portraits serve as a catalyst for conversations surrounding the broader themes of sustainability, agricultural practices, and the role of art in raising awareness. The combination of artistic expression and social advocacy found within his work contributes to a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges we face and the potential solutions offered by embracing traditional, eco-friendly practices.
As the international year of millets continues, Vijay Kumar’s art stands as a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in addressing global issues. His millet portraits not only captivate viewers with their intricate beauty but also ignite conversations and inspire individuals to reevaluate their relationship with food, sustainability, and the environment. Through his artistic endeavors, Vijay Kumar has transformed millets into a medium of artistic expression, promoting their significance and inviting a broader appreciation for their potential impact on the world.
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