Bhubaneswar, Nov. 8: Veteran artist Manu Parekh says he has a lot to learn from his daughter Manisha Parekh.

"She has had more exposure than we had at her age and she knows the right way to promote her art. I have a lot to learn from her," says the 77-year old artist about his daughter, who is also a well-established artist.

Parekh, who was in the city along with his artist wife Madhvi Parekh for an art workshop, says the younger generation has the benefit of technological advancements.

"Technology has opened up avenues for young artists. The market has grown and today artists have the freedom to use various artworks materials. They already have what artists of our generation only dreamt of. They are in constant touch with senior artists through technology," Parekh says.

Despite their whole family being in the field of fine arts, Parekh says they have maintained their individuality in work.

"I have strong women around me. We have healthy discussions in the house and there is no hierarchy when it comes to criticising or complimenting each others' work," Parekh adds.

Recalling his association with Odisha, Parekh says: "It is an interesting place. I came here when I was working for the handloom board and visited places such as Bargarh, Nuapatna, and Pipili, which are known for handmade products. The craftwork heritage here is very rich. It is encouraging to see local artists using Odia elements in their works."

Revisiting his theatre days, Parekh says his experience of working as a set designer helped him in work. His acting stint, too, helped him create the Banaras series and the 'head' series, which are his most acclaimed collections.

Eminent artists from across the country took part in an art workshop titled Melange that concluded yesterday in Bhubaneswar.

Hosted by Artist Mindz gallery, the four-day workshop, witnessed luminaries in the field of art including Sakti Burman, Ganesh Haloi, Anjolie Ela Menon, Jogen Chowdhury and Laxma Goud.

The workshop provided youngsters with an insight into the journeys of the stalwarts, their style of work and their interpretations of society.

Interacting with the young artists, Haloi says artists should have the urge to discover their desires. "Such workshops help in sharing ideas," he says.

Artworks created at the workshop will be displayed at the gallery for public view. An art museum will also be set up shortly in association with the state government.