“The moment I stepped on Indian soil, I knew it was my home,” says Russian artist Olga Levchenko, better known by her pen name Tara. She recently unveiled an exhibition featuring over 50 of her oil paintings at the Russian Centre of Science and Culture. The exhibition, which opened on Friday, is a testament to her deep connection with India and Nepal, echoing her travels and memories of these diverse and culturally rich nations.
Levchenko’s artworks predominantly reflect her observations and experiences in India and Nepal, drawing a vivid picture of the countries, their people, and cultures. A seasoned traveler, Levchenko has visited India more than 15 times. She asserts that her finest work has emerged during her time on the serene banks of the Ganges River.
The Chief Event Coordinator at the Russian Centre, Olga Kroshkino, commented on Levchenko’s collection, stating that it enhances the artistic ambiance of the Russian House in Delhi. Levchenko, on her part, emphasizes that her paintings offer viewers an intimate glimpse into her thoughts. “I follow the art of impressionism, a liberal art form that conveys spontaneity and independence of thoughts, with not just picturesque paintings but also every interior detail aligning with realism,” she explains.
Levchenko’s artistic journey in India spans four years, from 2020 to 2023. She has explored various cities and rural areas, with the city of Varanasi having a profound impact on her. “Happiness for me is watching the Ganga change colors at different times of the year; it is the reflection of reality. It is a joy to observe the simplicity of children running around the ghats and the wrinkles of wisdom on the faces of the elderly who lead the youth with their learning,” she expresses.
Her works, such as “New Moon,” “Reflection of Reality,” and “Ganga Rhythms,” embody the coexistence of modern and ancient structures throughout India. These pieces not only capture the physical beauty of these locations but also the essence of their timeless spirit. Levchenko traveled extensively across different states in India, such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh, as well as ventured into the mountain passes of Nepal.
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In every place she visited, Levchenko immersed herself in the local culture to depict it authentically in her paintings. Her canvases are imbued with joy and mark significant chapters of her life’s journey. “To live peacefully requires a constant give and take,” she notes, suggesting that her interactions with these diverse communities have been mutually enriching.
Levchenko shares an everlasting bond with India and plans to continue her artistic pursuits here. Currently, she is excited about a new project focusing on Varanasi. “If I have a choice, I would never want to leave India; it is so enriching to be here,” the 44-year-old artist proclaims.
Her creative flair in art and design was evident from childhood. At just 17, she opened her first art gallery with her mother in Tolyatti, Russia, while simultaneously pursuing a degree in philosophy. She credits her studies in philosophy with helping her develop the profound connections and understandings she brings to her art, regardless of her location. “I just need to look out of my window and remind myself of the world around me and absorb it as though I belong to it,” she states.
Her life has been a journey of continuous learning and honing her skills, supported by her parents and children. Levchenko has traveled widely, undertaking numerous projects in countries such as Morocco, Turkey, Bosnia, and Libya.
Regarding her pen name Tara, Levchenko reveals that it was inspired by Buddhism and her time spent in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, where Tara is worshiped as a deity. “Green Tara is an avatar associated with enlightenment, wisdom, and compassion, and I found the name to be very fulfilling for me,” she shares.
The art exhibit at the Russian House, located at 24 Feroze Shah Road, Vakil Lane, Mandi House, is open to the public until May 28, from 9 am to 5 pm. It is a valuable opportunity for art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in Levchenko’s vibrant world, which bridges the cultures of Russia and India through her remarkable impressionist works.
–Mudit Aggarwal
The Hindu MetroPlus
arts, culture, and entertainment
