Bathinda artist highlights farmers’ plight on canvas

Sukhmeet Bhasin

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, February 3

An artist from Bathinda, Gurpreet Artist, has made around 60 paintings in support of farmers and against farm laws. Gurpreet has made paintings that show that the three legislations would “crush farmers”. His two latest paintings on a journalist and a BKU leader have been liked by many on the social media.

He has also made humorous paintings on the tussle between singer Diljit Dosanjh and actor Kangana Ranaut. From day one of the farmers’ agitation, he has been making paintings on various issues like farmers moving from Punjab and reaching Delhi after braving water cannons, tear gas shells and crossing various barricades in Haryana.

He says, “I use paint and brush to highlight social issues. Art is a visual medium and it has power. I feel as if due to the effort of social media and art, people have started getting attached to the farmers’ cause.” He has made a painting on farmer leader Rakesh Tikait, too. He says, “Rakesh Tikait’s tears lifted the spirit of the agitation.” Apart from painting, Gurpreet has spearheaded and organised protests and marches in support of the farmers.

He said he had spent around 20 days at Tikri and Singhu borders. He also held an exhibition of his paintings at the Singhu border.