Ashish Kumar Maurya’s solo show, Trees don’t eat their own fruits, connects rural and urban life.
In a world increasingly defined by individualism, Ashish Kumar Maurya’s solo exhibition, Trees Don’t Eat Their Own Fruits, offers a perfect example of selflessness and interconnectedness. Hosted at the Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai, the exhibition was on from December 23 to December 29, 2024. Curated by Ifitkar Ahmad, the show called to explore compelling narratives of labour, survival and humanity’s deep ties to the natural world.
According to Maurya, “My work embodies the intricate connection between my village roots and urban experiences, weaving together the stories, struggles, and beauty of these two contrasting worlds.
It captures the resilience of rural life, with its deep ties to nature and tradition, while reflecting the dynamic transformations of urban landscapes. Through my art, I explore how these dual realities shape identity, offering a narrative that resonates with the evolving relationship between tradition and modernity.”
Through an evocative blend of mixed media, photography, etchings, and paintings, Maurya’s work captures the cycles of growth, decay and renewal, drawing inspiration from his own life and ongoing PhD research. The exhibition, rooted in the metaphor of trees that give without taking, promises to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.
The exhibition takes viewers on a journey that bridges rural and urban realities, delving into themes of resilience, transformation, and environmental consciousness.
Maurya’s art, informed by his doctoral research on ‘The New Perception of Reality in Contemporary Indian Art,’ reflects his commitment to exploring the interconnectedness of nature and humanity. The title of the exhibition encapsulates the essence of selfless creation, inspired by the metaphor of trees that nourish others without consuming their own fruits.
The exhibition features:
Environmental Narratives in Paintings: Works such as a labourer watering plants in a bustling urban setting, symbolizing resilience amidst transformation.
Mixed Media and Etchings: Pieces exploring the cycles of growth and decay, underscoring the interconnectedness of human effort and natural renewal.
Photography Series: Capturing vignettes of rural and urban life, weaving personal memories into broader social commentary.
This exhibition also stands as a heartfelt homage to Maurya’s late mentors, Prof Jai Zharotiya and SC Ahuja, whose encouragement played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic vision. Their influence resonates through Maurya’s work, which has garnered support from esteemed figures in the art world, including Prof Uttama Dixit (Dean of Visual Arts, BHU), Dr Suresh Chandra Jangid (PhD supervisor), and Prof Chawky Frenn (Fulbright Visiting Fellow).
