Celebrating the artistic journey of Shekhar Ranjan
Shekhar Ranjan Dutta, a seasoned artist, is recognized for his distinct artistic vision and deep spiritual connections, particularly the portrayal of light, shade and divine energy in his works.
Born in 1953 and a graduate of the University of Chittagong in Bangladesh, Dutta’s prolific career spans decades of solo and group exhibitions that have earned him laurels in India and abroad. His art transcends the ordinary, often drawing inspiration from sacred myths and the natural world, making each piece a rich tapestry of symbolism and emotion.
With a career that stretches over decades, Shekhar Ranjan Dutta’s art has captured the attention of collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. From solo exhibitions at prestigious galleries to group shows across India and abroad, Dutta’s works reflect his profound understanding of spirituality. Dutta has built an impressive portfolio, with his art traversing different media, techniques and themes. With over three decades of experience, he has held numerous solo and group exhibitions, both in India and internationally.
One of the defining features of Dutta’s artistic journey is his ability to seamlessly blend contemporary practices with traditional influences. He has been part of several important group exhibitions, such as ‘Charukala Pradarsani’ at the Academy of Art and Culture Gallery in Cooch Behar, West Bengal (1994–2023), and ‘Dwai-Rath’ at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kolkata (2022). His participation in ‘Orah’ at the Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalashetra in Guwahati, Assam (2022), and the ‘Art Beats’ exhibition at Lokayata Art Gallery in New Delhi (2024) further exemplifies his involvement in the contemporary art.
Dutta’s solo exhibition at the Lalit Kala Akademi in New Delhi (2004) remains one of the highlights of his career, offering a deeper insight into his artistic evolution. His works have also been displayed at various art camps across India, where he has shared his knowledge and gained inspiration from fellow artists.
Dutta’s art is not just an aesthetic pursuit; it is a spiritual and philosophical journey. He often draws inspiration from ancient texts and one of the most significant influences on his work is the Shiv-Puran. The mythological tale of Lord Shiva and Parvati, wherein they walk through the ekamra kanan (a mystical forest), observing the interplay of light and shade, resonates deeply with Dutta. In one such story, Parvati asks Shiva to dance with her and in this act, Shiva embodies Shakti—representing the eternal and dynamic force of creation and destruction. This divine interplay between light and shadow, power and tranquility, forms the core of many of his works.
The recurring motifs of divine energy, cosmic balance and the human connection to the universe feature prominently in Dutta’s paintings. His use of contrasting light and dark shades speak to the complexity of existence—where beauty is often found in duality and strength arises from harmony. His works exude a certain grace, blending mysticism with realism, making them accessible yet deeply profound.
Today, Shekhar Ranjan Dutta’s creations can be found in private collections across the globe. His commitment to exploring new dimensions of creativity, paired with his deep reverence for Indian spiritual traditions, ensures that his artistic legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Shekhar Ranjan Dutta is not only a master of visual expression but also a storyteller, weaving the threads of mythology, nature, and human experience into every canvas.
