The Alliance Française de Trivandrum in Vazhuthacaud is hosting the debut exhibition “Unbound” by Mumbai‑based artist Mary Samual, featuring 25 acrylic and water‑colour paintings that blend the mortal with the magical. The works draw inspiration from Jayakrishnan’s graphic novel Chithrakathayil Avante Bhoothangal, a magical realist tale that the artist encountered during the pandemic.
Samual, who began studying art only three years ago, was introduced to the novel by a friend. One scene, depicting a character navigating a turbulent sea on a boat made of roots, sparked her creative response. The exhibition, curated by filmmaker K.P. Sreekrishnan, showcases the artist’s independent interpretations of the novel’s non‑linear narrative, interspersed with passages and English translations.
Jayakrishnan himself reached out to Samual after seeing her painting and requested illustrations for scenes he could not depict. She completed six initial pieces for the novel’s 2024 release event, but due to personal reasons she could not attend. She continued to create additional works, culminating in the 25‑piece show.
“The text is visually rich and invites multiple interpretations,” Samual said. “It inspires others to create as well.” The exhibition runs until September 23, open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
