September 19, 2007, is an unforgettable date etched in the memories of not just Indians but global sports enthusiasts. It was on this day that Yuvraj Singh, amidst an on-field altercation, took the crease at number five and achieved an extraordinary feat by smashing six sixes in a T20 match. Yuvraj's remarkable half-century propelled India to a formidable total, paving the way for a memorable victory against England. This triumph marked India's inaugural T20 World Cup title, solidifying Yuvraj's place as a cricketing legend. While video recordings of this historic event preserve it for posterity, what if such technological advancements were absent? The essence of sports lies not just in the visual spectacle but in the immersive experience: the roar of the crowd, the glistening of sweat on brows, the effortless flow of movement. These are fleeting moments, temporary yet profound, pushing the boundaries of human potential. Throughout history, artists have grappled with capturing these evanescent moments in the enduring medium of paint.
The origins of sports paintings can be traced back to the earliest civilisations. From the wrestling boys immortalised in the tomb of Ptahhotep (c. 25th century BC) to the Minoan youths engaged in boxing on the Akrotiri fresco (c. 1650 BC), these early artworks celebrated the physicality and grace inherent in athletic endeavours. Fast forward to 500 BC, where the Pentathlon emerged as a subject of artistic fascination, capturing the rhythmic interplay of various disciplines: discus throwing, javelin throwing, long jumping, wrestling and foot racing. The overlapping figures and dynamic compositions of these artworks speak to the orchestrated chaos of the pentathlon. In the modern era, artists have continued to experiment with sports paintings, exploring new perspectives and techniques. Umberto Boccioni's "Dynamism of a Cyclist" (1913) revolutionised the genre by portraying the cyclist not as a static figure but as a blur of motion, capturing the sheer speed and power of the sport. Andy Warhol's Muhammad Ali (1978) transcends mere physical representation, utilising pop art's repetition to elevate the boxer to iconic status. David Hockney's The Skater (1984) goes beyond depicting physical steps, instead focusing on bold lines and vibrant colours to convey the elegance and grace of figure skating. In a more contemporary vein, Julian Opie's "Running Plate" (2020) adopts a minimalist approach, stripping away extraneous details to focus on the essence of movement. The figures become universal symbols, representing not just individual runners but the very act of running itself. Through these diverse approaches, the medium of paint has proven remarkably adept at capturing the fleeting nature of sports. It encapsulates not only the physicality but also the dedication, determination and skill required to excel in athletic pursuits. At RGNUL, Patiala, inspired by these artistic giants, young minds embarked on a creative journey, transforming the university walls into vibrant canvases of inspiration for the sports festival, Zelus.
Under the visionary leadership of Vishnu Dhangal and Vanshika Jain, the team divided tasks strategically, leveraging each member's strengths. Through this collaborative effort, they embraced the richness of diverse perspectives, navigating creative differences effectively. The journey was not without its challenges. In the face of setbacks, they demonstrated unwavering persistence and dedication, even undertaking the arduous task of repainting walls to meet their exacting standards. Hrishabh Khatwani, providing a detailed overview of the creative process, underscored the importance of innovation, even in the minutiae of font creation for the paintings. Drawing inspiration from the works of Nishank, a distinguished alumnus of the class of 2021, the team found guidance in navigating the complex interplay of colours, forms and messages. Whether braving the sweltering heat or bundling up against the cold, they found solace in each other's company. Armed with smartphones as makeshift torches, they illuminated the night, transforming darkness into a canvas of possibility. Stools became their allies, aiding them in reaching previously unattainable heights. Amidst the diverse array of paintings, one stood out, featuring a background inspired by the Chrome Dino game. Its message, "You are offline, don't panic, look around, interact with RGNUL," served as a gentle reminder of the importance of connection and human interaction in an increasingly digital world. The team also remained attuned to emerging trends, recognising the growing popularity of gaming within the university community. Paintings such as "PLAY," "Game On" and "BGMI" reflected this cultural zeitgeist.
Phrases like "Bulls Eye," "No Bad Vibes," "Be Strong," "Never Give Up" and "Unleash" served as motivational beacons, urging students to transcend limitations and strive for greatness. The portraits and names of sporting giants like Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, Virat, Dhoni and others found their rightful places on the walls. The logos of esteemed teams like Manchester United, Arsenal, and LFC, among others, adorned the walls, imparting a profound sense of belonging to the student body.
It's noteworthy that the artistic prowess displayed wasn't the domain of seasoned artists alone; many participants were novices, navigating the world of art for the first time.
Arpit Azad, amid his journeys to and fro from the water taps in the fac area, articulated that the enthusiasm to learn propelled him to dedicate days to this newfound artistic pursuit. What was once unexplored terrain became not only accessible but also enjoyable, reinforcing his belief that this collective exercise would metamorphose them into artists.
While the students honed their artistic talents, they also gleaned valuable lessons from the intersection of sports and law. Sports, like law, are inherently about negotiations and contracts, where diverse interests constantly clash and compromise is essential. Indeed, every action on the field carries potential consequences, from penalties to disqualification, mirroring the complexities of legal proceedings. The athletes learn to decipher nonverbal cues, anticipate actions and communicate effectively with teammates, referees and adversaries alike. Furthermore, the physical benefits of sports extend beyond the playing field, with the release of endorphins promoting stress reduction and mood enhancement.
Improved energy levels and stamina are invaluable assets in navigating the demanding academic schedule of law school. Khuswant Nimbark drew from past team experiences, acknowledging the profound impact of this artistic venture. Beyond fostering a love for art, he recognized its ability to tap into the intrinsic motivation and fierce determination inherent in sports. It became a convergence of two worlds, where the discipline of sport met the creativity of art, resulting in a harmonious blend of passion and expression.
Daya Sakthi, immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the painting space, found solace and inspiration in the music played by the team. As brushstrokes merged with melodies, she entered a state of flow, where time seemed to stand still and creativity flowed freely. Yet, she acknowledged the hesitancy that some individuals may have felt in showcasing their artistic talents publicly. Drawing from the wisdom of a popular song, she encouraged them to cast aside their apprehensions and embrace their inner artist: "Kuch Toh Log Kahege, Logo Ka Kam Hai Kehna" (People will say something; it's their job to say). The festival cry, "Ajo Vee!" (Let's come together!), serves as a clarion call for individuals to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the joy of self-expression. When pondering a mascot for the festival, the team spoke with unanimous conviction, proposing "Punjab De Sher" (Lions of Punjab) as the most fitting embodiment. Reflecting on the festival's dual nature as both a celebration of sports and a cultural commentary, the mascot serves as a proud symbol of Punjab's rich heritage and the indomitable spirit of its people. Nature, in its own serendipitous gesture, adds a final flourish to the artistic tableau. As rain descends during the festival, a vibrant rainbow arcs across the sky, casting its kaleidoscopic hues upon the paintings below. This natural spectacle not only celebrates the ephemeral beauty of both art and sport but also unites participants and spectators in shared awe and appreciation. As of now, these artworks stand as visual records of the festival, serving as poignant reminders of the camaraderie, passion and creativity that defined the event.
Close-up: A champion's hand, battle-worn, claims the ultimate prize.
Colour scheme: Gold blazes, red ignites passion, and yellow signals victory.
Symbolism: A moment frozen in time, a testament to the cost and glory of victory.
Close-up: A crowned badminton shuttlecock, royalty of the court.
Colour scheme: A dreamy palette of pink, lavender, purple and blue.
Symbolism: Signifies the potential for greatness within the sport.
Close-up: Dhoni, the lone figure, stands with head hung low.
Colour scheme: A single, powerful colour black.
Symbolism: This sombre portrayal reflects disappointment or loss, yet the black also embodies resilience, hinting at the potential for future growth.
Close-up: The words "Bullseye" superimposed over a pair of watchful, focused eyes.
Colour scheme: A bold contrast of red and white.
Symbolism: The sharp focus of the eyes reinforces the unwavering determination to achieve a goal. The red background injects a shot of energy and motivation.
Close-up: "El Clasico" is prominently displayed in the centre, flanked by the detailed logos of FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Colour scheme: A clash of titans- Barcelona's blue and red meet Real Madrid's white and gold.
Symbolism: A canvas divided; a passion shared.
By- Jaiveer Singh
(Junior Editor, RGNUL Cosmos)
Quite a intersecting and interesting article beyond imagination... really great use of words ..keep shining
More universities should follow RGNUL's lead and incorporate art into their premises. Brilliant idea!
Really interesting to see how sports connect to the legal world. Never thought about it that way before!
You've woven together so many interesting threads here, Jaiveer- sports, art, law, music.
You guys are setting a high bar for future Cosmos pieces.