(From left) Chandrabali and Nirupam Sen at the inauguration of the exhibition of their son Atri’s paintings. Picture by Sayantan Ghosh

A special artist, Atri Sen, is holding a special exhibition at Gallery K2 on Lansdowne Terrace. The exhibition is the second solo show at this gallery by the 29-year-old son of former state industries minister Nirupam Sen.

Atri’s mother Chandrabali and Nirupam showed guests around after the inauguration of the show on Tuesday, with the artist, who lives with disabilities, hospitalised following a sudden illness. He has been on the ventilator since March 26.

“Around the time Atri was six years old, he started making sketches on walls. Then he started making small cards and calendars. He loves using bright colours and red is his favourite. Once he has painted something, he calls me and asks if it’s looking good,” said Chandrabali.

Atri, who was around three years old when a bout of encephalitis affected his brain, is very particular about not letting anyone see his paintings before they are completed, she added.

The works on display showcase the artist’s love for vibrant colours and his imagination. “Over the years, with his parents’ encouragement, he has found a creative outlet in painting. His use of colours shows his sense of optimism and positive take on life,” said Manoj Mohanka, a family friend.

Atri’s teacher Susanta Dey, who was present at the inauguration, shared some secrets about his special student. “Atri’s paintings depend on his mood. A careful scan will reveal that he has used dull colours in some of his paintings. Dull colours mean he wasn’t in a good mood on the days he made the paintings. His mood is reflected in his work, which makes them special,” said the teacher.

Atri carried a scrapbook with himself whenever he travelled and made rough sketches in it before transferring the images to canvas, Dey added.

Atri’s favourite subjects? Flowers, boats and cars.

The painter had also helped to title the 44 works being exhibited. “He explains what he has painted so that the paintings can be titled,” said Chandrabali.

Before his illness, Atri had been very involved with the exhibition and had even drawn up a list of guests he wanted to invite. He would request his mother to ensure that all the guests were invited.

“‘Ma, have you told my art teachers?’ he would keep asking me. We are shattered that his illness is keeping him away from the exhibition,” said Chandrabali.

The exhibition will continue till April 8 at K2 gallery.