Conflict resolution is a range of processes aimed at alleviating or eliminating sources of conflict. Processes of conflict resolution generally include negotiation, mediation and diplomacy. Processes of mediation and arbitration are often referred to as alternative dispute resolution.

I painted this subject in Y2007 when 2 states of India, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu were at loggerheads with each other regarding sharing of the river water passing through both the states. The long-standing conflict reached a law and order flash-point and the Central Government at Delhi had to intervene to cool the tempers of people in both the states. It saddened my heart because I was born and brought up in both these states and never in my younger years had such incidents happened. Now a days even small issues are getting politicized for the benefit of few. Such conflicts keep happening in my country all the time. Sad reflection of the days of intolerance.


In the Twenty-First Century violent conflict seems never far from the headlines. Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine, Africa Chechnya and Lebanon form a chain of instability across strategically vital regions. Major International powers can contribute to the promotion of peace and engage themselves to conflict resolution and prevention.

But conflict has clearly not gone away. In place of interstate war, ‘new’ wars have emerged. These conflicts are characterized by confrontations between violent non-state actors, including groups employing terrorism, and state-backed agents. Modern conflicts are fluid, dynamic and chaotic.

Elements of impressionism appear as ghosts in the background of this abstract painting. There are faces and issues made to conflict with each other are shown in organic and inorganic shapes and colours. But ultimately, this is an abstract expressionist work of art. As we know, canvas is canvas and paint is paint. They have a life of their own … and something to say.

Enjoy!

Seshadri.