Category: Art Achievers

Padmashri awardee Shyam Sharma’s artworks are a fine example of nature entwining with mind. He is one of the greatest living legends India has says Vasant Rao, artist and curator from Sydney, Australia

If nature is the macrocosm, the body is the microcosm. Nature is life oriented, while the mind is individual-oriented. When there is a clash between the mind and nature, we try to shape the world following the mind, rather than living in harmony with higher existence. This is where the conflict begins. Nature ultimately wins by reclaiming the bodily form. The balance between the mind and nature has a significant bearing on our ecosystem. The mind uses the body in a way that may or may not be in tune with nature. Nature is not some distant phenomena. In the form of our body, we carry a drop of nature wherever we go. Padmashri awardee Shyam Sharma’s artworks are a fine example of nature entwining with mind. He is one of the greatest living legends India has and is presently based in Patna.

The legendary artist imbibes the vibrancy of Indian tradition from the colourful devotionalism of his birthplace Govardhan, Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. In Shyam Sharm’s work, one can recognise a few important characteristics of constant innovation and discovery in his great body of works. Shyam Sharma’s work of art depicts multiple visual depictions in a single composition that includes symbols of Indian cultural and spiritual values. They express meaning and meaninglessness, sound and silence of our own life and the world around us. His colours are mostly earth colours or primary colours which shows his main concern with what is quaint and permanent and not what is bright and immediate.

Shyam Sharma’s visual compositions present the degree and quality of Nature connectedness of life which forms our identity. The characteristics of nature connectedness are similar to those of a personality trait and can be referred to as emotional affinity towards nature or inclusion of nature in self. The forms in his painting reveal some ancient wisdom describing layers of experience.

The colours in Shyam Sharma’s work create a great environment to seek some divine mystery. The beautiful healthy forms, lines and space make a great physical body of his idea wherein his mind, intuition and spirit are housed thus creating a scape of silent consciousness just like a mirror. The end result is the most valuable experience of the artist and a quality of the inner music depicted visually for the viewer that shows the inner space is full of harmony, joy, blissfulness.

Shyam Sharma’s work of art gives the viewer an experience of having entered some secret, undiscovered space of existence. His entire process of art is presented in such a subtle way that you can feel privileged that all the mysteries of existence are exposed to you. You can enjoy the first- hand experience of the power and energy of Shyam Sharma’s work at the Art Life Gallery, wherein the show Akash Ganga is going on representing his works. The show is curated by Pratibha Agarwal wherein she has made sincere attempts to reveal these hidden secrets of ethereal existence.

The Account of the Celestial in P. Gnana’s Works

P. Gnana’s art engages the discipline of form and texture succinctly, returning his viewers to the primal wonders of life. Rendering a strong visual language to stages of infancy and spiritual awakenings, the artist works through metaphors. The aesthetics in his work brings out a sharp volume in the matriarch figure, where the figure adorns the child by offering a physical and metaphysical sanctuary. As one looks through his creations, one encounters a deep sense of pride in the beauty of camaraderie and bonding. To him, perhaps, this blinding sense of faith in interpersonal relationships remain intact and clouded in the ambiguous nature of its own enactments and attachments as variable experiences.

Again, this ambiguity also extends itself to the idea of consequences, which can be seen as possible inferences to death or, even, finality. The eyes of his figures remain shut, almost content. For instance, the blurring adds a dark established semantics to the closed eyes and one can see the portrayal as definite. The finality in their visage is a promise of the contentment that death has to offer as often described in the belief of ‘life after death’ or, perhaps, the importance laid on the sense of completion. One may wonder if this completion is a semantical investment in the idea of life cycles – maybe, even an investment into the idea of longing.

Gnana’s work views nostalgia as a technical skill, where each brush stroke reworks through vibrant colours depicting energy and consciousness. This nostalgia is the actual subject that he layers in his concerns with finality. Therefore, reverberating through bold, bright colours, the viewer is exposed to Gnana’s work as a metaphorical expression of death, nostalgia, and metaphysics.

His paintings and sculptures refer to the element of excess in South-Asian aesthetics, where he occasionally toys with a glossy finish as the final act of art-making. The glossy texture, simultaneously, projects the notion of a refreshing textural engagement which the artist serves as his take on his subjects.

Gnana’s artistic language also sheds light on the spiritual narratives. Krishna plays a pivotal role of form and philosophical engagements. His flute and his cow hold an important visual position relating with the artist’s creative realm and his insight into vast cosmic belief systems. Here, the figure of Krishna is peaceful and involved in his own love for music while music becomes Gnana’s means to engage with the Arts in a more precise manner.

Interestingly, his bold, dark skylines depict the enormity of the spiritual inclinations. They feature the depth of his spiritual vision too. Simultaneously, his engagement with family and motherhood consists of the qualities of nourishment and health.

Again, there is a tendency in the artist to partake in the aesthetics of glamour, where we are exposed to intricate embellished details on the fabric of his figures. These details are made in gold paint that add the grandeur value and, with the gloss on top, they begin to turn towards a sheen sprightlier than the other colours. Motifs of flowers, leaves, paisley, and similar other popularised vernacular embroideries on the clothing’s of his protagonists makes his paintings a commentary on the various traditional schools of art-making. Also, there are times when the artist has indulged his creations in exploring found objects, such as textile and playing cards.

Gnana’s artistic pursuits lead him through a strong sense of variants which he further elaborates in a more immediate flavour. It is particularly important to look at his personal journey that has led him to this blending in schools.

Another drama unfolds as we look through his works, where we see the beauty of his forms stage itself beyond the source of reflection. It contemplates love as an action of attachment and interacts with ‘shared’ emotions or bonds. Romance and the celestial beings in his work brings forward a realized strength of the self. He approaches the subject through a visual language of grandiosity similar to the ‘secession’ movement in the Arts. The hint at the Apollonian structures is quite evident in his sculptures too. The drama of the tall, stretched bodies adorned in the marvels of designs and embellishments also hint at this possible influence.

– Satarupa Bhattacharya
Presented by Easel Art Gallery

The Dancer, Model, Actor, mimic – all rolled into one meet Abhinav, the special kid.

Arms outstretched; Abhinav delivers Shah Rukh Khan’s signature pose to perfection. Meet Abhinav, a special kid, who by his grit, has achieved what most others only dream about. Abhinav has the congenital condition of Down’s syndrome (DS). The occurrence of this condition is about 1 in 1000 births. It is an intellectual disability and makes the kid special. Abhinav and his mother Neerja, share the story of their conjoined lives with Art Soul Life.

Where Abhinav lacks in terms of IQ, he more than makes it up with his EQ (Emotional Quotient). Bearing a congenial countenance, he has a disarming smile which puts those around him quickly at ease. Mild mannered and affable almost to a fault, it is impossible not to like Abhinav.

“It was tough, very tough,” Neerja recollects stoically. “Every day was a battle, and in many ways, it still is. Many people would not allow their children to play with Abhinav. Some used to ask us whether Abhinav was insane and feared that he might throw stones at other children and hurt them. Abhinav wouldn’t even hurt a fly, leave alone pelting stones. Abhinav used to ask me very innocently as to why other kids did not play with him. It was absolutely heart breaking. Well, such is the world we live in. There is a definite bias and several prejudices against special kids. But he does have a few good childhood friends, thank God for that.”

When asked about Abhinav’s talent as a dancer, Neerja went on to recount how and when it all started. “Actually, he was born with it. He always had a penchant for dancing. Beats and rhythms got to him in a way that is difficult to describe. Early on, he used to dance to the tune of TV commercial jingles and even to phone ring tones. Whenever invited to a party, he would first enquire if there was going to be a DJ. He would go to parties only to dance. Food, fun and frolic never mattered to him.”

Studies were tough for Abhinav. He was home schooled and managed to complete his secondary school. Meanwhile, he got praises from various quarters for his flair for dancing. At this stage he decided that he would pursue his passion full-time and become a dance performance artist. He enlisted at a Shiamak Davar Dance Academy to learn dance formally. However, most of Abhinav’s dancing is self-taught. Abhinav’s performs in Contemporary, Hip Hop and Bollywood dance styles, with the latter being his favourite. Amongst the actors known for their dancing prowess, Hritik Roshan is Abhinav’s favourite. Abhinav’s success mantra is to recognise one’s abilities and strengths and then work hard upon it. Abhinav credits his success to his mother, Neerja. Neerja has always encouraged him and stood by him. She is mother, friend, confidante, dance partner (when needed) and chief motivator to Abhinav. Abhinav gets “the never back down” streak from Neerja.

Abhinav is twenty-four now and has performed in more than 250 dance shows. He has also participated and has featured in many TV reality shows. Besides dancing, he is also making his mark as a promising actor and model. Very recently he has modelled for a Google advert. He has won more than 100 awards and citations, amongst them most notably, the President’s award National Award 2023 for “Shreshth Divyangjan” in the field of Art & Culture. The Award was conferred by Honourable President of India Smt. Draupadi Murmu.

Giving back to the world, Abhinav has started a modest dance academy at his residence, teaching other children who have Down’s Syndrome or are autistic or under privileged. This is entirely pro gratis.

Closing thoughts shared by Neerja

“A lot of work needs to be done by society to make it more inclusive and empathic towards special kids. Sometimes parents of special kids are to blame too. Some parents confine their special kids to their homes. They do this out of shame and some think that it is for the best. How will kids blossom as healthy individuals if they are confined and isolated? Do this to a normal kid and, he too would grow up to be mentally stunted.”

Abhinav’s contact details and social media presence:

Email: chaudhary.abhinav18@gmail.com

Youtube: Dancer Abhinav Chaudhary

Instagram: chaudhary.abhinav18

Facebook: Dancer Abhinav Chaudhary

Ph: +91-7838882269

Advaiya Bhraman, a solo exhibition of Aarti Zaveri features salient works curated from her entire body of works

Advaiya Bhraman, an exhibition of paintings along with installations and video art by Aarti Zaveri, was held at AIFACS in New Delhi, from September 15 to 28, 2023. Aarti Zaveri, a seasoned multidisciplinary visual artist, has three decades of artistic practice behind her.

She identifies herself as an artist of planet Earth with an inclusive world view. This perspective enables her to conjure up art that is not bound by language or geography. Her aesthetics have grown with her sensitivity and keen sense of observation particularly with respect to the changes in topography as a result of rapid growth and modernization, reflecting the impact of urbanization on our ecology.

Aarti’s creative verve is expressed through different mediums and forms. Right from painting, sculptures, installations, site-specific art works, to video art, she does it all. Human consciousness-centric, Aarti has had many thought-provoking solo exhibitions on varied subjects. Her own aesthetics in art have also transformed over the last three decades.

From being a celebrated portrait artist of gallant soldiers and martyrs of the Indian Armed Forces, to paintings that explore time, space and the mind, Aarti has moved into the realm of abstract works layered with complex thoughts.

‘Pehchaan’, Aarti’s mask series explores diverse human emotions. It started with her making army portraits, many of which adorn government offices including the secretariat building in Delhi. It made her view the real expressions one has on their face and not the one that is just a flitting glance. The artist shares her thought process on mask and says, “My mask tries to convey that everyone carries a great light within, a treasure, one should introspect and try to discover their own centre. My masks are not asking to renounce materialistic things, but to renounce the greed, selfishness and jealousy that the mind loves to feed on. That is the real problem today. It is blocking the way within which I would call the centre. Rejoice in the state of not-knowing and great wisdom will be released, the peace within will be awakened. Only that will give you the taste of eternity.

Her ‘Life (+-)’ is a mixed media on canvas which were created during the testing times of the Covid pandemic. Then there is ‘Jigsaw Puzzle of Beautiful Life’ where life is premised as a puzzle and of trying to fit in features in another thought-provoking series of paintings. The idea of time is central to a whole exhibition leading to another one dwelling on timeless moments. The fluidity of a clock in images creates a whole new narrative. These journeys of paintings are interspersed with site specific installations and public art including international participation and projects to create awareness about subjects that she holds dear to her: Nature, its elements particularly water and rivers to the Fragility of the Habitat. This latter was a large public installation at the India Habitat Centre, Delhi this year.

An interactive session with Aarti Zaveri in the show provided an opportunity to gain insights into how an artist grows in understanding, the creative churning of subjects that play a role in shaping works and enable viewers to have a new perspective. Art has the ability to bring about changes both at an individual as well as collective level and that is something central to Aarti’s aesthetics which focuses on the ability of art to transcend boundaries and boundations.

Ganesh Dhareshwar has tried to explore the social, cultural and even spiritual understandings, freely transcending the rules to offer a visual treat, says Alka Chadha Harpalani.

Madonna Ciccone had aptly put it, “I am my own experiment. I am my own work of art.” In the same vein, Spiritual Rumination, an exhibition by Ganesh Dhareshwar dares to plunge into innovative domains- parallel and overlapping ones too, holding onto both conventional and experimental approaches. What connects an onlooker to works of art is the treatment, letting the eye travel in waves, which sustained numerous creative levels. The artist has tried to explore the social, cultural and even spiritual understandings, freely transcending and letting the rules knowingly and unknowingly combine in certain ways to become a visual treat. At one point there’s calmness, at another there’s an aptitude to interchange swiftly from one stylistic language to another. It churns one’s mind, and shakes it to rethink and refocus. The show embraces the shift of the themes.

One can feel the dynamism and extemporaneity of lines and brush strokes in the play of white, greys and blacks in the abstractions. There are deliberately elongated arms and distorted human figures taking mind back to El Greco’s art. The forms are nestled in colours, jute, tapestries, embroideries and weavings. Uneven patches stitched over the canvas and forming asymmetrical shape, blended with calligraphy or random script harmoniously get adjusted in between the patterns. ‘Finding my pearl’- a gigantic and impressive installation greets everyone as they enter the exhibition hall, with black shining, handmade, teakwood seashell forms, hanging and lying around on a pedestal over the white pebbles. As per the artist, the artwork represents “a precious moment one lives in, denying its perfection and yet searching for right time to enjoy life, while the actual one is simply slipping away.”

“A collage of percussion instruments helmed the table leathers with hints of glitter, the installation poses questions and provokes askance. Ganesh Dhareshwar at a relatively young age exhibits vintage insouciance…

Meditative struggles of temperance within and emerging realities are some of the themes that speak in telling decibels of angst and silence. There are very many vicissitudes of functional challenges that are intermittently experimented with. The design grammar is a smorgasbord and acutely symbolic with a plethora of cultural possibilities and pluralism. He covers a wide range gambit extending a contemporary vibe to a circular formation of chairs that reflect the work and life dynamic of urban climes and connectivity of tech and the hapless souls. It is quite an experience and many a flailing erupts of challenge” says Kiran Bagade, curator and art historian.

The exhibition is like a roller coaster of fluctuating considerations, but the strong thought process is so obvious behind each expression whether it is in a painting, installation, assemblage or a sculpture. A new indicative and playful message- with nature, birds, human, technology, mirror and illustrations- enwraps ‘on, over and behind’ each broken, asymmetrical, barren or reclining chair displayed in a circle; while there are connotations of vicious satire in a chair full of nails kept over a royal carpet, telling a story of accountability and challenges which come with a responsible post. Another scene in the Hall captures the narrative scrolls overflowing from roof to the floor. Eye moves evenly and suddenly a newfangled intriguing medium pops up. Sets of worn out and torn tabla tops, compiling of the bayan and dayan, bejewelled with white, blue and ochre colour dots, have been aesthetically displayed over a wall adding more beats and notes to the concept. Installation with bricks, horns and mud reflect artist’s cultural aspect. The presentation, which spread across four galleries in Chitrakala Parishath Bangalore from June 16 to June 21, 2023, had an entirely professional essence where in the wholesome harmonious collaboration, even the infinitesimal of the details has been kept in mind by the curator CS Krishna Setty- an eminent artist and former chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi. He sums up the works of Ganesh aptly in his words, “Sri Aurobindo opines that the first and the lowest use of art is purely aesthetic, the second is the intellectual or educative, the third and the highest the spiritual. Ganesh Dhareshwar’s recent suite of works resonate the same concept, but he enlarges these in his own way. He has been following the usual modern troupe and now drastically changed his iconography and trajectory of search into rapidly changing times.

As quoted in Sivasutra, ‘embrace the destruction of the old to make way for the creation of the new,’ he delves into realms of spirituality to explore new interpretations. This upcoming artist is well versed in social and spiritual aspects too, and committed to bring the inner voices out, using symbols and metaphors. He juggles skilfully between varied mediums and genres depending upon artistic intent. Being a vociferous visual composer with an acute sensitivity to his surroundings, Dhareshwar uses his observation skills to context to the emerging beliefs of the visual world.”

Broader class of artworks can not only drag out various suggestive or evocative words like ‘contemplative’, ‘optimistic’, ‘balanced’, ‘spiritual’, ‘repetitive’, ‘experimental’, ‘ornamental’ etc but also point out towards wider beliefs, cultures, realizations, emotions, views and perspectives. There is an obvious ‘over the time’ evolution of an artist. About his re- enactment of a ritual, Ganesh says, “My works are the manifestations of my conscious and subconscious mind. Though it is not as profound as the one who reaches the higher levels of pure consciousness in meditation, I believe that the total surrender and involvement with the work process in any good practice makes it never the least either. It is not that I don’t have any doubts.

Neither are these my extreme works I possess, nor do I continue to believe the same without change. I certainly accept the flaws which I find in them but as of now, I genuinely feel that these are righteous deeds which I’m showcasing here.” Overall, the show was an interface of verbal and spatial acumen, multisensorial reliance and an inclination for and openness to boundless involvements.

Alka Chadha Harpalani is an artist and a writer based out of Bangalore. She can be contacted at alkachadhaharpalani@gmail.com

Black 7 Art organised the solo show from Sept 16 to 20.

Black 7 Art organised solo show by Ram Onkar from September 16 to 20, 2023 at Convention Centre Foyer at India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. Artist Ram Onkar is originally from the rural hinterland of Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh but he has been residing in New Delhi from the last two decades. At present, his works are a great compendium of the portrayal of music in all senses. The artist has used oil on canvas and water colour paintings to express his love for music.

Ram Onkar says, “I have been engrossed in art for several years and have spent my whole life painting. I intend to continue to do so in future as well. I am very happy that I get to spend so much time in practicing art. I am lucky to have got time and ability to understand the world through colours and I keep trying to comprehend it and there is a persistent desire to learn something new and wonderful out of this. I have chosen the medium of oil and acrylic on canvas for music series, which is a subject which is widely visible.”

I am lucky to have got time and ability to understand the world through colours.

Music is a medium which infuses happiness in everyone’s life. It refreshes the mind and body. “Doctors recommend listening to music. Across the world, music is a sound that reaches the brain and provides energy. There must be someone who does not listen to music, that is the reason why I have been pursuing this topic on canvas for many years. I have also added 3D impressions to it and try and give the transparent look in my oil colour works. I have also displayed a few paintings which are made in water colour and relate to theme artworks,” the artist explains.

An art odyssey, Sixteen-III, with sixteen artists aims for optimism and inner joy say’s Prof Dr Amargeet Chandok

A group exhibition, Sixteen-III, of paintings, drawings, ceramics, graphics and sculptures by sixteen artists, was held at the Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre, Delhi from September 29 to October 3, 2023. Akin to a beautiful bouquet, a variety of techniques and mediums were used. Altogether they created a colourful kaleidoscope of diverse art. For briefs of the sixteen artists and their art, read on. Alpana Mahajan, a contemporary Indian artist, works with various mediums such as acrylic, oil, watercolour, and mixed media. Alpana uses bright and contrasting colours to create a vibrant effect. She draws inspiration from nature, spirituality, and mythology. Her style is influenced by the folk art of Alpana or Alpona, which is a traditional form of floor and wall paintings by women of Bengal. Alpona consists of coloured motifs, patterns, and symbols that are painted with rice flour on religious occasions and festivities. The motifs relate to specific deities, festivals, or seasons. Alpana incorporates some of these elements in her paintings. Her paintings celebrate India’s rich heritage while representing the mundane daily activities.

Angelica Basak, founder of Artify Studio, is a contemporary Indian artist who works with oil, acrylic, watercolour and digital media for her paintings and sketching. She likes to paint portraits, animals, landscapes, abstract and nature. She uses a variety of techniques, such as blending, shading, and highlighting, to create realistic and detailed effects. She also adds elements of fantasy and the quaint to her paintings, such as butterflies, flowers, and stars. Her art style is influenced by the Indian culture and heritage, Raja Ravi Varma’s works as well as those of other artists, such as, Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Dali, Picasso, amongst others. Her works are expressive, emotive, surreal and diverse. Arup Kumar Biswas is a contemporary Indian artist who is a painter and a sculptor. He works with acrylic, oil, watercolour, charcoal and clay. He creates abstract and semi-abstract paintings that explore the themes of nature, spirituality, and human emotions. He uses a variety of colours, shapes, and textures to create a visual harmony and contrast. He also adds elements of symbolism and surrealism to his paintings, such as birds, flowers, and faces. His art style is influenced by the Indian culture and heritage, Gurudev (Rabindranath Tagore), Jamini Roy, Nandalal Bose, as well as by the works of artists such as Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Picasso. He has used various representational elements like plastic bottles, disposable plates, small rings, water taps, etc. (i.e., objects most commonly used in our homes). His objective is to highlight the fleeting nature of time – and that, it is not happening somewhere in space or in isolation – but it is here and now.

Ashwani Kumar Prithviwasi is a contemporary Indian artist who is also the founder and principal of Delhi Collage of Arts. He works with various mediums such as oil, acrylic, watercolour, and charcoal. He creates realistic and semi-realistic paintings that depict the beauty and diversity of Indian culture, especially the rural life, festivals, and traditions. He also draws inspiration from nature, spirituality, and human emotions. His style is influenced by the folk art of Alpana. Ashwani incorporates some of these elements in his paintings, such as lotus flowers, conch shells, owls, and geometric designs. He also uses bright and contrasting colours to create a lively and dynamic effect. His paintings are a celebration of the rich and diverse heritage of India.

Dr Deepak Kumar Ambuj is a contemporary Indian artist and has a Ph.D. in Fine Arts. He has won many awards and accolades for his works. He is known for his abstract and figurative paintings that explore themes such as identity, nature, culture, and spirituality. His art style is influenced by Indian folk art, expressionism, and surrealism. He uses vibrant colours, geometric shapes and symbolic elements to create dynamic compositions.

Faiyyaz Rashid Khan is a painter and educator. He uses a variety of techniques, such as realism, impressionism, expressionism, and abstraction to create his unique art work. Figures and forms are intertwined to great effect along with the bestial and human forms showing associations with surroundings and creating the surreal. He experiments with oil paintings, watercolour, acrylic, charcoal, soft pastel, and portrait paintings and drawings. His themes are based on nature, culture and spirituality. He also incorporates elements of Indian folk art, such as Warli and Madhubani in some of his works.

Hem Jyotika is an Indian artist who works with acrylic on paper. Her abstract paintings are inspired by nature, spirituality, and human emotions. Her art style is characterized by vibrant colours, fluid shapes, and intricate patterns. She uses a technique called the silk thread, which involves applying thin layers of paint with a brush or a needle to create a textured effect. She also incorporates elements of Indian folk art, such as mandalas, paisleys, and flowers. Her ‘Divine Art’ collection explores the themes of nature, spirituality, and human emotions. Her works evoke all shades of emotions. Apart from painting, she has directed several documentary films including the critically acclaimed ‘The Female Nude’ that was adjudged as the best film on social issues at the 56th National Film award Indu Tripathi works mainly with acrylic on canvas but also loves watercolours for their transparency and spontaneity. Her works are inspired by her love for nature and spirituality.

She is known for her figurative works which are often described as ‘lyrical’. Her art symbolism and adroit use of contrast, texture and composition are hallmarks of her work. Lalit Bhartiya is a self-taught artist (painter, photographer, musician and a litterateur). His love for realism, shapes much of his work. He mainly uses acrylic on canvas. He also uses poster colour on silk. His body of work also includes realistic paintings with dry pastels and water, poster, stone, oil and acrylic colours.

Lalit Mohan Pant is also the curator of this show. He works with charcoal on paper. His themes span across abstract figurative, abstract landscapes and nature. He tries to capture the invisible connections and interactions amongst nature, human emotions and spirituality. Many of his works have found their rightful place in private, corporate, museum, gallery and government collections. He draws his inspiration from nature and strongly feels a deep respect for it as he says that nature gives in abundance but also takes everything back at a slightest whim.

Maitreyi Nandi mainly works with acrylic on canvas. She also works with oil, watercolour and mixed media. Her style is quite distinctive and is shaped by her love for nature, spirituality and Bengali culture. Her strokes are expressive and the hues vibrant. Other than painting, she works for and espouses women empowerment through NGOs. Pankaj Saroj is an Indian artist who works with various mediums such as oil, acrylic, watercolour, and mixed media. He paints colourful landscapes, flowers, birds, and human figures in a semi-abstract manner. Many of his works are influenced by his childhood memories and later travelling through stunning mountains capes. Through his works, he seeks to capture the tranquillity and harmony that abounds in nature.

Rajesh Kumar Tanwar is an Indian artist who works mainly with acrylic on canvas. His works contain geometric shapes and patterns in abundance, the themes include spirituality, about emotions (for example, happiness) and nature (for example, colourful birds on abstract backgrounds), and landscapes. He has received several awards and recognition for his works. Ram Sanjeevan is a noted sculptor. His ‘Apple Series’ of sculptures are dedicated to return of normalcy, peace and humanity in the valley of Kashmir.

Prof (Dr) Sanjeev Kumar is an Indian sculptor. Prof Sanjeev Kumar is presently Principal, College of Art, Delhi. He is also working in ceramics and uses various mediums for his artistic expression. He works mainly on stone and bronze. He also uses ceramics, terracotta and fiberglass. He is known to experiment with different patina, finishes and textures. His art style is primarily influenced by Puri and Mathura styles. His works are often based on Hindu Gods and Goddesses.

Shampa Bhattacharjee is an Indian painter who works with acrylic on canvas. She is a self-taught artist. Her art style is unique and original and doesn’t follow any particular school of art. Her paintings express her personal views on life, nature, spirituality, and human emotions. She uses vibrant colours, expressive strokes, and symbolic elements to create her works. Her works are sought after by collectors and art lovers. She has also donated some of her paintings, the proceeds of which have been used for those affected by COVID-19 and the Amphan cyclone. Altogether the works exude hope, positivity and are inspirational.

About Dr Amargeet Chandok

Dr (Mrs) Amargeet Chandok is Head of the Department of Painting at the College of Art, New Delhi. She holds a PhD in Fine Art. A recipient of the Priyadarshini Indira Gandhi Award for Lifetime Achievement (2001), she has to her credit the world record for the biggest painting of Mount Everest signed by Sir Edmund Hillary. She has been conferred with various award namely:

• Indian Icon Award 2022, on the occasion of 73rd Republic Day Celebrations
• Chairman of The All-India Sikh Conference – 1996
• WCCI- Secretariat, University of Cincinnati, USA- 1995
• Dr. Karan Singh, Minister Culture- 1992

Asif Sharief Shaikh sees his art as a reflection of his inner thoughts and the harmony of apt colours.

Deeply impressed by the sanctity and relevance of life around, Asif Sharief Sheikh presented his solo series named, Identity at Jehangir art gallery in Mumbai. The show went on from September 19 to September 25.

Life can be colourful, exhilarating and pleasant. It’s glowing hues often leave deep impressions and an everlasting impact. Life at times leaves indelible marks on sensitive souls and results in perceptive expressions revealed in visual fine arts or any other form of art.

Asif’s art enables him to express his inner thoughts and the harmony of colours through their rhythmic perceptions. The real-life experiences inspire and motivate him to create artworks using the relevant colours and rhythmic hues. Asif is a full-time abstract painter. He is inspired by colour and movement and creates vibrant abstract works in acrylic on canvas in deep color palettes of blues, reds, and greens.

There is both rhythm and texture in his work as thin lines and unique forms meet to create a new visual language. Asif has participated in many solo and group exhibitions, and has won several awards for his drawings and paintings. He has also been involved in various art festivals and workshops. He considers his art as a reflection of his inner thoughts and the harmony of apt colors.

Artist and author Anurag Anand set the hearts and minds of art enthusiasts on a hypnotic journey through his recent art exhibition, Soulful Sojourn. The exhibition featured three distinct series namely, Building Blocks, Code Un-code and Nature Mélange, each offering a unique perspective and exploring the human experience vividly through art.

The art show was open for the public till October 19, 2023 at Gallery-A, All India Fine Arts and Crafts Society (AIFACS), New Delhi. The grand inauguration ceremony was graced by ambassador Dr Amarendra Khatua, former secretary, Ministry of External Affairs as the chief guest and Rachna Agarwal, principal architect and co-founder of Studio IAAD and Zoera as the distinguished guest of honour.

Padma Shri sculptor, Biman Das, who lit the ceremonial lamp at the inauguration, praised Anurag Anand’s palette and the use of mature colours and strokes in his exhibits. He also shared anecdotes from his own life that had inspired him in his journey as an artist.

Rachna Agarwal, while addressing the gathering commended Anurag Anand on his remarkable ability to balance art and writing. She highlighted the unique blend of storytelling through words and images that Anurag uses for his creations.

Ambassador Khatua expressed his appreciation for Anurag’s set of nine artworks entitled “The ‘H’ of Habitation.” He remarked “It is amazing how Anurag has used man-made structures to create human forms. These art pieces are not only eye-catching but also hold deep meaning. One could continue to gaze at them for hours.”

The event saw the presence of several gallerists, including Ruki Chatterjee of Gallery Ruki, Meena Singh of Gallery Blue Dot, Vibha Singh of Vibha Creations and Jyoti Kalra of Uchaan Arts. With their appreciation for Anurag’s artistic creation, they added energy to the already vibrant atmosphere of the exhibition.

Numerous artists and art enthusiasts were also in attendance. Anurag Anand’s artistic expressions aroused a rich tapestry of emotions in them. His thought-provoking artwork left a lasting impact on attendees and deepened their understanding of life’s complexities and its simplicity too.

Anand is an author as well and has penned thirteen books. He is a columnist and a corporate professional. He considers himself a student of life and expresses his observations, understanding and responses to the triggers that surround us. Anand’s visual creation, much like his writing, is anchored in relatability and bears the mark of versatility in treatment. He believes that the thought behind each artwork makes it unique and the diktats of palette or style only restrain creativity. His choice of subject’s ranges from teachings of ancient Indian texts, to the crudity or beauty of nature, the interplay of human emotions and the state of the present. His preferred medium is acrylic on canvas or paper. As a self-taught artist, Anurag likes to experiment with mediums in shaping his art works. Acrylics and oil are his mediums of choice. His creations are often stark, evocative and provocative. They compel onlookers to pause, engage and decipher.

Anurag has won several prizes for his pursuits. He has been awarded by Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Corporate Excellence in 2016 and for Role Players in 2019 by the World Training and Development Congress. He is also a contributing writer for several leading publications.

Kolkata Art Riders, dedicated to promotion of visual art, is showcasing 16 artists from across the country

Kolkata Art Riders, a venture dedicated to the promotion of visual art across India, is showcasing artists from various parts of the country. From semi-abstract landscapes to expressive monuments and from brilliant abstract expressions to intricate enamel art this initiative is a testament to the rich tapestry of artistic talent in India.

The details of the 16 participating artists:

Chandana Khan’s Expressive Landscapes: Hailing from Hyderabad, Chandana Khan’s work delves into the world of semi-abstract landscapes. Her creations can be likened to action paintings, where the canvas becomes a platform for energetic expressions of emotions and thoughts, etching her unique artistic footprint.

Farzana Sahab’s Monumental Expressions: Lucknow based artist Farzana Sahab has a distinctive way of expressing the city’s essence. She recreates various monuments of Lucknow with a deeply expressive touch, offering a new perspective on the city’s historical architecture.

Abheek Rastogi’s Abstract Brilliance: Abheek Rastogi is a master of abstract expressionism, harnessing the power of colours to create a visual language that speaks volumes. His works are a testament to his skill and imagination, a vibrant testament to the world of abstract art.

Paromita Mukherjee’s Abstract Experimentation: Paromita Mukherjee, a senior artist in the field, continually experiments with various abstract forms. Her work, whether organic or inorganic, challenges artistic boundaries and offers a fresh take on the abstract art landscape.

Kripal Singh’s Visual Vocabulary: Kripal Singh builds a visual vocabulary with a range of abstract forms. His works invite viewers to explore and interpret the ever-evolving language of abstract art.

Rajeev Semwal’s Pen Drawings: Rajeev Semwal is renowned for his pen drawings, which delicately represent objects and life as observed in his surroundings. His work captures the intricate details of everyday life.

Anindita Kishore’s Enamel Art: Anindita Kishore has garnered fame for her enamel art, a labour-intensive technique that produces captivating and intricate pieces of artwork. Her mastery of this medium is truly remarkable.

Mukta Gupta’s Human Form Explorations: Mukta Gupta explores the world of human forms, vividly depicting day-to-day activities and emotions of mankind. Her work resonates with the experiences of everyday life.

Manju Bhatiya’s Imaginative Indian Art: Manju Bhatiya contemporizes pure Indian art styles in her imaginative way, creating pieces that honour tradition while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Subui Khan’s Expressive Faces: Subui Khan’s work revolves around creating expressive faces that often reflect her own life experiences. Her art connects with the human spirit on a deeply personal level.

Kirti Awasthi’s Stone Dust Expressions: Kirti Awasthi, trained under the legendary Ram Kinkar, is a brilliant artist who often expresses herself through the medium of stone dust. Her work is a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Bhaskar Kishore’s Enamel Expressions: Bhaskar Kishore utilizes enamel as a medium to craft various images. His work is an exploration of colour and form, offering a fresh perspective on the possibilities of this unique medium.

Tapas Pramanik’s 3D Creations: Tapas Pramanik creates 3D images using Paper-Mache on canvas. His three-dimensional artworks invite viewers to immerse themselves in a world of depth and perspective.

Sneha Sadhukhan’s Emotional Canvas: Specially gifted artist Sneha Sadhukhan skilfully captures a range of emotions experienced by women on canvas. Her work is an evocative exploration of the complex and nuanced feelings of women.

Presh Bera’s Watercolour Journey: Up-and coming artist Presh Bera has gained recognition for his watercolour works. His creations have struck a chord with art enthusiasts, promising a bright future in the world of art.

Mausumi Sengupta Mallick’s Expressionist Pain: Mausumi Sengupta Mallick is an expressionist artist who paints the various pains and struggles that we all go through in life. Her work serves as a powerful medium for conveying the universal human experience.