Art Mumbai 2024 Bigger, Brighter and More Inventive. The City's One of a Kind Art Fair Is Back from 14th - 17th November at Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Art Mumbai was held in November 2023 at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, featuring a meticulously curated array of modern and contemporary art from both India and South Asia as well as a robust roster of galleries and participation from foundations and distinguished art institutions.

Founders, Minal and Dinesh Vazirani, Conor Macklin and Nakul Dev Chawla are proud to announce the dates of the second edition of Art Mumbai, presented by Birla Opus. From 14 to 17 November 2024, occupying a larger area of the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, this year Art Mumbai is being presented in a format that will blend the timeless allure of its iconic venue with a vast and even more diverse display of original and fine art from South Asia and around the world. In addition, there will be curated experiences, a speaker series and installations at the bigger and brighter Art Mumbai 2024.

A Large Contingent of Global and Indian Galleries

Art Mumbai ‘24 is delighted to have expanded with 71 prominent galleries from India and abroad, as well as three foundations participating. The Indian galleries include Vadehra Art Gallery (New Delhi), Nature Morte (New Delhi, Mumbai), Experimenter (Kolkata, Mumbai), Galerie Isa (Mumbai), Tarq (Mumbai), DAG (Mumbai, New Delhi), Gallery Espace (New Delhi), Gallery Sumukha (Bengaluru) and Emami Art (Kolkata). The nine international galleries present will be Galleria Continua (San Gimignano, Rome, Les Moulins, Paris, Beijing, Havana, Dubai, São Paulo), Ben Brown Fine Arts (London, Hong Kong, Florida), Rossi & Rossi (Hong Kong, London), Grosvenor Gallery (London), Aicon Gallery (New York), Aicon Contemporary (New York), 1x1 (Dubai), Volte Masters (Dubai), and Galerie Geek Art (Tokyo). The foundations at Art Mumbai ’24 are Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, Saffronart Foundation and RMZ Foundation.

Speaker Series

The much-appreciated Speaker Series at Art Mumbai has been designed to build upon the conversations and thought starters that were presented in the previous year. Supported by the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, the series will give patrons an opportunity to better understand collecting patterns of the past and how they are changing today, the different urgencies that informed the Indian modern art movement, Mumbai's role as a melting pot of artistic practice, the technological advancements of AI in art, the expansiveness of the term South Asia with regard to art, and many more timely and thought-provoking sessions.

 

Sculpture Walk

A highlight of Art Mumbai 2024 is an expanded sculpture walk comprising of several large scale outdoor sculptures as well as some interactive installations which will weave through the fair venue. The sculpture walk will be supported by RMZ Foundation.

Art Mumbai Gateway

Inspired by the Mumbai city's iconic landmark, the Gateway of India, Art Mumbai presents Art Mumbai Gateway, year-round programming that includes exciting conversations, exhibitions, workshops, performances, events and more, across India and around the world. The aim of this series of art walks and talks is to keep conversations surrounding the Indian, South Asian and global art world alive all year round. Earlier this year Art Mumbai Gateway curated experiences in London, Delhi and Mumbai.

Art, Mumbai and Art Mumbai

Mumbai has an indelible and historic connection with the arts. From being home to some of the country’s earliest and key arts institutions to present day UNESCO World Heritage Sites and state-of-the-art cultural centres, the city has always created spaces where it can welcome artists, writers, performers and creators alike.

Art Mumbai acknowledges Mumbai’s legacy as an artistic hub and pioneer of creative innovation and exchange. Over the past few years, the city's cultural scene has thrived, witnessing increased artistic collaboration, gallery engagements, major exhibitions and cultural events that enhance public participation in the arts. Art Mumbai aims to contribute to the growing ecosystem by being a platform that brings together artists, galleries, institutions, curators, collectors, architects, designers, art professionals, enthusiasts, and those seeking to be initiated in the arts.

“We received a tremendous response to Art Mumbai last year and were proud to see the fair emerge as a genuine celebration of community. The participation of international galleries significantly enriched the event, providing a valuable blend of diversity, exposure, networking possibilities, and a global outlook. With the second edition we hope to infuse a greater spirit of community and commerce that will elevate the overall cultural and economic influence of the fair in a global context,” says Dinesh Vazirani, Co-founder, Art Mumbai. 

 

Art Mumbai: The Team

Dinesh Vazirani: CEO, Saffronart, Mumbai and Co-founder, Art Mumbai Dinesh Vazirani is the CEO of Saffronart, a leading international auction house specialising in Indian art, that was established in 2000. A Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master's in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University, and an MBA with honours from Harvard Business School, Dinesh is also on the board of several companies and a frequent speaker at various events. He is actively engaged in the Young Presidents' Organisation.

 

Minal Vazirani: President & Co-founder, Saffronart, Mumbai and Co-founder, Art Mumbai

Minal Vazirani is the President & Co-founder of Saffronart. She has led the founding of the business, developed the online auction technology and established the company's presence in Mumbai, New York and London. Her strategic planning and pioneering concepts have driven the company's foray into new businesses. Minal is also a co-founder of the Saffronart Foundation, which uses art to raise awareness about key social issues, support community outreach, and contribute to the development of South Asian visual art. She chairs the India Committee for Women to Watch, 2024, an exhibition developed by the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA), Washington, D.C. She is on the acquisitions committee at the Tate Modern, UK and on the advisory board for the Mumbai Urban Art Festival. Minal has an MBA from INSEAD, France, and B.S. in Chemical Engineering with an additional focus on Art History and Indian History from the University of California, Los Angeles.

 

Nakul Dev Chawla: Director, Chawla Art Gallery, New Delhi and Co-founder, Art Mumbai

Nakul Dev Chawla, director of Chawla Art Gallery, is a third-generation gallerist. Nakul has grown up around the dynamic landscape of South Asian art, which gives him a unique insight into the market. The gallery continues to be a pioneer in promoting and securing South Asian culture, with its primary focus being modern Indian artists.

Conor Macklin: Grosvenor Gallery, London and Co-founder, Art Mumbai Run by Conor Macklin and Charles Moore, Grosvenor Gallery has continually exhibited modern and contemporary South Asian art, predominantly the works of mid-20th century Indian modernists such as the Bombay Progressives, as well as Chughtai, Gulgee and Sadequain from Pakistan.

 Source: Business Wire India. PTI 

"VOY-AGE" Solo Show of Paintings By Well-known artist Swati Roy in Nehru Centre Art Gallery

Recent work of a luminary from Govt College of Art and Craft and a renowned contemporary artist Swati Roy will be showcased in a solo art exhibition at Nehru Centre Art Gallery, Dr. Annie BesantRoad, Worli, Mumbai 400 018 from 19^th to 25^th November 2024. It will be open there for free public viewing daily between 11am to 7pm. This series made in watercolours on art paper using Gouche technique will exemplify subtle nuances of her skillful application of apt colours in thoughtful pragmatic thematic perceptions.

Artist: Swati Roy

Swati Roy had her art education upto diploma in fine arts followed by diploma in Indian style drawing and painting from Govt. College of Art and craft, Kolkata. Then she displayed her thematic work in solo and group art exhibitions at renowned galleries all over India such as Academy of Fine Arts, Kolkata, Lalit Kala Academy New Delhi etc.

The present series VOY-AGE highlights subtle nuances of the thematic conceptualizations based on fundamental concepts and their skillful application via apt colour tones to suit thematic peculiarities. Her works have a magical sensibility via essence of both Indian and Western arts. Perfections in her style command over the medium and techniques   adopted and expertise in presenting non figurative abstraction compositions are commendable. Her work is in the genre of classic modernism and expressionism which are bold pictorials of her deepest thought. Her thoughts & Inspiration received from nature find a prominent place in the creative endeavors.

Her faith in phenomenal nature as the ultimate source of forms and configuration, duly reflects in the creation by selection of the recollected memories of the observed contents as configuration of colour-masses with shapes defined by contour lines on dimensional pictorial surface divided into flat colour areas. These shapes and spaces being the residues of images of the phenomenal terrains, sky, land, roads, plants etc become expressive. The various contour lines with which she encloses the shapely colour masses endow the shapes with a strange kind of organic rhythm thereby rendering expressionism to the work. In a way her works are at a junction between representationalism, formalism and expressionism. She has adopted suggestive colours and common symbols upheld by plastic rhythm and inventive shapes. The insistent flowing vegetative rhythms of semi-abstract and abstract combinations find a significant place in her creations which are both eloquent and lucid as well as thematically relevant.

VOY-AGE

Solo Show of Paintings

By

Renowned artist Swati Roy

From: 19^th to 25^th November 2024

VENUE:

Nehru Centre Art Gallery

Dr. Annie Besant Road,

Worli, Mumbai 400 018

Timining: 11am to 7pm

Contact: +91 8910812801

Blue city’s -‘The Poetic Soul’ Recent Works by contemporary well-known artist Madan Pawar in Jehangir

Madan Pawar does not abstract human settlements but rather renders them in shapes and hues that celebrate the ingenuity of those who build them despite the challenge of poverty and space. Skylines are not always tall towers - flat roofs or Chaths as they are called in India are communal places. The hues of the walls of the city of Jodhpur even though they are coloured convivial blue  to protect from the sun they also serve as caste markers. Behind the immense beauty of Rajasthan there are deep divisions of caste and its continuous celebration.

Artist: Madan Pawar

 

An art school research trip to Rajasthan is when Madan Pawar discovered Jodhpur.  Jodhpur is a city on the edge of the Thar desert from where wades of sand extend across  the districts of Barmer and Jaisalmer  into Pakistan until the fort towns of Umerkot in Tharparkar and Derawar in Bahawalpur.  This is the region of the Marwar and the Dhatki, a community with a distinct language,  ways of society,  cuisine, music and clothing all attuned to the desert.  A distinct frugality is seen in the way of life and thus are the ways of living.  Homes are mud houses built of red stone created to insulate against the hot summers and cold winds of the winters.  

Recent painting by  Madan Pawar

On the slopes of the Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur just above the grid like  modern city built by the Maharajas in the 20th century is the old city.  Here different castes inhabit different quarters called Mohallas.  Each one of them is adjacent to a gate or a Pol.  We have people working with bamboo,  the dyers making the distinct multic-oloured bandhani turbans and sarees,  the sonars or goldsmiths gather on many thoroughfares and the Brahmins who hold pockets across these places give name to the city -  the Blue City.  Fortunately in the Republic of India people are free to not use colour as a social class or caste marker and the colour blue is the hue for social reform.  The homes across Jodhpur are made of a lime mortar called 'Surkhi Choona',  the blue glaze comes from the copper sulphate used in the lime mortar to protect it from termites.  This use of indigo forms the colours of the walls giving the panorama from the fort a distinct azure tint as we see the homes gather around the slopes.

 

Madan Pawar is a trained painter and printmaker from the Sir JJ School of Arts,  Mumbai and is an artist drawn to forms that allow him to explore colour using the prisms of grids.  His aerial studies are formed through grids of architecture that allow him to fill in colour that form patterns which are magical to the eye.  Landscape painting holding realism in perspective was introduced through the colonial schools of art in the 18th century. In Rajasthan miniature painting across the Rajput schools, have a surreal magical rendition to represent divinity, myth and fantasy.  Madan Pawar to paint Jodhpur takes cues from Paul Cezanne's fauvist landscapes of Mediterranean towns in the south of France.  Towns around Avignon,  Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux dès Provence and Aix-Marseille hold similar planning in terms of inhabitants and architectural structures - saving the inhabitants from the many days of the sun.  Jodhpur has the most number of bright days in India and one look at the old city from the vantage point of the Mehrangarh fort we see the number of solar panels air-conditioning tourist homestays that most old city houses today serve as in the 21str century. 

Recent painting by  Madan Pawar

Madan is not a painter defined by fauvism,  in fact his images have sharp edges and boxes that justle each other on geometric angles.  The effect almost is a prism Vasarely would have been envious of but it is one that arrives after a lengthy three month use of technique,  precision and a personal colour theory.  The juxtaposition with   colour to form scapes that hold a very pleasing sight to the city by forming  a spectrum of patterns  is very unique.  I have known Madan over the last 15 years as an artist and it has surprised me how he has grown as a painter.  He has worked with architects to closer align his practice to them by helping them reimagine folk architecture.  They often commission him to work on projects where they are re-interpreting Indian architecture and its resonances with materiality.  Paul Cezanne's renditions  of Mont Sainte-Victoire (1904 - 06) the mountain that overlooks Aix en Provence and separates it from Marseille is where the Cezanne finds himself in his painting practice.  Madan Pawar's renditions of 'Jodhpore en Azur Bleue'  in many hues, shapes and colour holds the light an artist seeks in his painting.  

  

 

Sumesh-Manoj-Sharma

writer and curator, Bombay.

Press Release

From: 19^th to 25^th November 2024

Blue city’s -‘The Poetic Soul’

Recent Works by contemporary well-known artist

Madan Pawar 

 

VENUE:

Jehangir Art Gallery

161-B, M. G. Road

Kala Ghoda, Mumbai 400 001

Timing: 11am to 7pm

Contact: +91 9765504620

 

SPANDAN GLOBAL ART JOURNEY

 TARGET : 100 MONTHS ~ 100 COUNTRIES ~ 7 CONTINENTS SPANDAN INDO EUROPEAN INTERNATIONAL ART CARNIVAL

SPANDAN Global Events and Publications completed its “National Art Journey” with 133 events in all the 29 States, 8 UTs of India during its 100 Month Art Journey with numerous promotional activities, Social Awards and awareness programme, supported and promoted 1000s of artists from across India and abroad.

SPANDAN is on an ambitious project to promote Indian art and artists internationally. Our “Spandan Global Art journey” has already commenced with 4 international exhibitions in London, Georgia, Greece & Nepal. The target is art exhibitions in 100 Countries in 100 months to enrich the lives of thousands of artists from seven continents worldwide.

The first phase of the “Spandan Global Art Journey” comprises mega International Art Festival, First_of_its_kind events in 27 European Union Countries. Also, Six Exclusive issues of our International quarterly Art Magazine & #39; Spandan Artbeat’ will cover all the events, profiles of selected artists and art and culture of 27 European Union

Countries.

As a token of gratitude, we are inviting artists from around the world to join our SPANDAN GLOBAL STAR ARTIST GROUP for a nominal membership fee.  The members get an opportunity to exhibit their artwork in five EU Countries of their choice. This is one of the greatest opportunities for artists to demonstrate their creativity to the World, add brand value to their artwork and get recognized globally. We promise to connect artists, art lovers and collectors around the world, making a broad scope of artworks available at your fingertips. We at Spandan ensure quality and authenticity.

“Rhythm of City Life” Solo Show of Paintings well-Known artist Vaibhav Thakur

Recent work of a well-known artist, Vaibhav Thakur will be showcased in a solo art exhibition at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai - 400001 from 12th to 18th Nov. 2024. It will be open for between 11am to 7pm. This series in Acrylic colour on canvas will exemplify the subtle nuances of the dynamism of urban City life in a metropolitan city like Mumbai and relevance as well as sanctity of its rhythm in apt perspectives of visual Arts. 

 

Artist : Vaibhav Thakur

Vaibhav Thakur had his art education at L.S. Raheja School of Arts, Bandra, Mumbai followed by an advanced course at Sir J.J. School of Arts, Mumbai. He was a proud recipient of several awards from reputed Art promotional institutions since his student days and early phase of his art Journey. He has been working as a teaching faculty in Vasai Vikasini College of Visual Art, Vasai Since 2001. He has presented his thematic work in several reputed art galleries in solo and group exhibitions in Mumbai, New Delhi etc. He has actively participated in many art camps, demonstrations and workshops organized by reputed art promotional institutions and thereby rendered his yeoman services for propagation of visual arts in the present art scenario. His thematic works are in a proud collection of several art lovers and collectors of national and international reputation.

 

The present series in acrylic colours on canvas focuses on his artistic perceptions about the pulse of urban struggle to highlight the unseen struggle of city workers and the unrelenting pace of urban life in a metropolitan city like Mumbai. He has also revealed his thematic perceptions that delve into the unseen struggles of the city. He has shed light on the often overlooked lives of city workers from early morning tiffin services to the late night shifts in industries.  The various artworks capture the frenetic energy of the city, where speed and efficiency are of paramount importance at the cost of human labour and hard work. He narrates the highlights of the struggle and resilience of various workers who keep the cities running often without recognition or respite.

 

He has mostly highlighted ' Tiffin Service' a poignant depiction of early morning rush for a scramble to deliver Lunches to offices across the city, 'Cycle of Life' A vibrant series capturing speed and energy of city streets showing cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles in coexistence with one another and City Lights - A haunting depiction of nocturnal city life where workers toil late into the night often unseen and unappreciated or somewhat to some extent ignored by all. 

Various works shown in this art exhibition showcase unique story of city life from Chaotic streets to the quiet moments of introspection and resilience to indicate the rhythms of urban life in apt perspectives of visual arts.

VENUE

Jehangir Art Gallery

161-B, M.G. Road

Kala Ghoda, Mumbai 400 001

Timing: 11am to 7pm

 

HIMMAT SHAH - Innocence & Creativity, Solo show at ICIA Gallery - AstaGuru

Institute of Contemporary Indian Art powered by AstaGuru Auction House in association with Namtech Fine Art, is honoured to present 'Himmat Shah - Innocence & Creativity', an exclusive exhibition showcasing the profound artistic journey of revered sculptor Himmat Shah, whose innovative works have left an indelible mark on modern sculpture. This collection features a unique assembly of bronzes, all masterfully cast at the renowned Bronze Age Foundry in London, where Himmat has skillfully worked for over two decades. The curation features seminal works such as Man From Moon and Tirthankar.  The works from Tirthankar series transcend mere representation, becoming iconic symbols of ancestral memory and spiritual guardianship.

The exhibition also chronicles forms that the modernist has revisited throughout his career. The exhibition will also display his exploration of large works executed in stone and solid gold casts for his miniature sculptures.

 Speaking on his work and association with AstaGuru, Himmat Shah says, “

My journey as an artist has always been about striving for creativity and excellence. I met Tanuj Berry in 2006, and we talked about the challenges of achieving high-quality casting in India. He introduced me to a foundry in London, where I realised my vision with incredible precision, and was amazed by the quality of casting at Bronze Age. Their interest in enlarging some of my sculptures led to the creation of larger pieces that really stand out in the exhibition.

 

The beautiful patinas and increased scale have given new life to each piece, highlighting the intricate details I imagined. One of my favourites is "Tirthankar," along with some heads inspired by my experiences in London.The beauty and uniqueness of women from all walks of life inspired me to create sculptures that celebrate diversity, with each head telling a story of strength and individuality.

 I’m excited to exhibit my work with AstaGuru, a platform that champions artists like me. I hope these sculptures connect with viewers and inspire an appreciation for the diverse identities and experiences that enrich our world.”

Speaking on the association, Manoj Mansukhani, Chief Marketing Officer at AstaGuru says ''We at AstaGuru are truly privileged to showcase Himmat Shah’s remarkable body of work through the 'Himmat Shah - Innocence & Creativity' exhibition.This collection represents a legacy of artistic mastery, as Shah's works transcend conventional sculpture to engage with themes of memory, spirituality, and individuality. We look forward to welcoming art enthusiasts to experience this unique curation, which offers a glimpse into Himmat Shah’s creative journey and his dedication to capturing the essence of human experience."

The exhibition will be held on 16-18 November, 2024 at the ICIA Gallery at Kalaghoda, Mumbai and will be inaugurated by Himmat Shah himself.

  

About AstaGuru

AstaGuru Auction House was conceptualised in the year 2008 with the sole purpose of creating a safe and secure platform to conduct online auctions for Contemporary & Modern Indian Art. Over the years, AstaGuru has curated auctions encompassing diverse categories, our portfolio includes art,  jewellery, fine silver, timepieces, textiles, celebrity memorabilia, rare books, numismatic, philately and vintage cars. In 2018, AstaGuru became the first Indian auction house to present an exclusive  edition for vintage and classic cars. “AstaGuru has strived to successfully bridge the gap between prospective buyers and consignors by transcending the limitations of live auctions. AstaGuru imparts effortless transparency to the process of acquiring and selling art and rare collectibles. The online module offers bidders the opportunity to bid from the comfort of their houses or while they are on the go.

 For more information, please log on to https://www.astaguru.com/

Facebook: @Astaguru | Instagram: @astaguru | X: @astagurutweets

 

 

INK WHISPERS at Nippon Gallery, Mumbai

Dibakar Das based in Mumbai, India, channels his profound connection to nature, urban life, and personal reflection into his art. Drawing from the bustling energy of Mumbai's cityscape, the tranquil Mumbai Sea, and the subtleties of day-to-day life, Dibakar’s work captures a unique tension between movement and stillness. His artistic practice is further shaped by a meditative approach, with each piece embodying the balance of light and darkness, all conveyed through ink’s fluid yet potent nature

Artist: Dibakar Das

Using brush strokes and natural stick pens, Dibakar brings organic texture and depth to his work. His approach allows ink to reveal the contrasts of light and shadow, mirroring the complex duality of existence. Known for his expressive and contemplative style, Dibakar invites viewers to step into a world where city life and inner peace coexist harmoniously.

"INK WHISPERS" at Nippon Gallery in Mumbai is an evocative exploration of these influences. Each piece in this solo exhibition reflects Dibakar Das’s mastery of ink in abstract expressionism, combining raw emotion with the essence of Mumbai’s vibrancy and natural beauty. Through fluid forms and dynamic compositions, Dibakar delves into themes of connection, resilience, and introspection, presenting a nuanced view of life that resonates universally.

Signature works in "INK WHISPERS," such as “untitled moments 1” capture this interplay of light and darkness, mirroring the energy of the busy city and the quietude of meditation. The exhibition immerses visitors in a world shaped by organic forms, revealing the spontaneous yet calculated nature of ink’s movement.

Through "INK WHISPERS," Dibakar Das transforms ink into a medium of emotional expression, where the balance of opposites—light and dark, chaos and calm—creates a visual narrative that is both intensely personal and universally relatable. Each piece is a whispered reflection on the nature of existence, inviting viewers to discover the layers of meaning hidden within the abstract.

INK WHISPER

SOLO EXHIBITION

BY: DIBAKAR DAS 

12-16 th NOVEMBER 2024

03:00 pm - 08:00 pm 

For more Information, visit 

NIPPON 

2nd Floor, Flora Fountain, Deval Chambers 30/32, 2, Nanabhai Ln, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

ART NOVEMBER GROUP SHOW OPENS WITH ITS FIRST PHASE OF EXHIBITIONS

Romartika Art Decoded is back with its signature group shows of paintings by emerging artists At Malaka Art Gallery, Koregaon Park, Pune. During the month of November, there will be two group shows back-to-back. The first phase of the show is being held between 4th to 15th November. The show has been inaugurated by Mr. Sanjeev Pawar, Director of Art Pune foundation.

Curated by Saikat Baksi, the exhibition offers a captivating blend of Indian Classical, realism, and abstract expression. Artist Mamta Prasad presents a blast of passion on her canvases. The hint of an emotional whirlwind swings in harmony with joy and sorrow in her paintings. Artist Nilima Gadling’s black and white pen and ink paintings beacon the viewers into a Zen like abstraction. Her canvases present an unusual blend of calligraphic strokes and natural rhythm. The realistic expressions by Artist Nisha Kshatriya border on impressionist style. The contrasting intensity of color in her portraits as well as landscapes stop the viewers on their track. Artist Preeti Shah presents a diverse mix of style and form, celebrating joy through her displayed oeuvre. Artist Anusha Singh’s seamless transition from poetry to abstract expression touches the heart of the art lovers. Her canvases hold a promise of a unique style unseen before.

 

Artist: Mamta Prasad

Overall, it is a remarkable visual experience unmissable for art lovers in the city.

“INFINITE SPACE” Solo Show of Paintings by well-known artist Virendra Kumar

This show will be inaugurated on 5^th November 2024 at 5pm by Honorable Guests Dr. Uttam V. Jain (Patron Hindustan Chamber of Commerce),

Virendra Kumar

Shri. Rajendra Patil(Eminent Artist & Ex Teaching Faculty, Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai), Shri. Mahendra Kalantri(Director Acclaim Systems (I) Pvt. Ltd. ), Shri. Sanjay Nikam (Eminent Artist & Art Curator)

Virendra Kumar is an experimental and versatile Indian Painter who has graduated from Patna Arts and Crafts College, Patna University, India in 1997. Born in Bihiya Village, in Bhojpur District of Bihar, Virendra Kumar had a very happy childhood. His village like all villages in Bihar is very rich in the traditional folk arts. He drew inspiration from watching his mother, aunts and other family member painting and decorating their homes by painting on walls during festivals and weddings.

So Virendra was constantly surrounded by not only vibrant colours, celebrations of festivals with music and dance but was fortunate enough to get maximum encouragement from his own art-loving family. His father too was art oriented and strongly supported his decision to be an artist.

Love for Nature, curiosity, hard work, love and dedication for art are the qualities that motivated Virendraji to follow his creative quest with unusual commitment and passion.

His paintings today are magnificently serene, contemplative in spirit and rich in their depth. One can say that Virendra Kumar's paintings are exquisite creations of pure abstraction. In these paintings, we find an element of mystery and sense of musical rhythm. In other words, these are poetic configurations of abstract forms, all passionately rendered, which emerge like dreamscapes bathed in shimmering or muted hues of overlapping contours of abstract lines and forms, vibrant colours all intricately worked out in richly textured, visual symphony.  

       

Virendra Kumar navigates the spaces with consummate skill. There is a playful yet intense engagement with juxtaposition of forms and colours.

While dealing with spaces, the artist has very brilliantly escaped the constraints of 'traditional composition'. Spontaneity and mystic depths created through multilayered abstract forms, spaces are enlivened by vibrant colours like ultramarine blues, jade greens, ruby reds, topaz yellows, blues and Verdean greens and many more hues. These visuals also carry different space divisions and contours that hint at certain abstracted forms of landscape, city dwellings and many more interesting elements.

A discerning viewer is drawn deeper into these meditative paintings to discover worlds within worlds. These paintings linger on in the viewer's memory and touch the viewer's heart. Apart from family support, Virendra Kumar was also inspired by great masters like Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko. Indian artists like Ram Kumar, Natvar Bhavsar, V.S. Gaitonde too have impressed his painterly mind.

Virendra believes when he says "the artist's space, as blank canvas invites many challenges" He describes how while traveling in a plane he has often discovered the magical optical illusion that takes place when "we look out of the window, at the earth below, the landscape transforms into a maze of tiny dots - he explains.

My Art works are theme based, climate changes, environmental issues and the problematic human impacts to life on earth are all subjects, I creates new paintings, using the abstract expressionistic style to express modern social issues and raise awareness through his art. I am trying to show the beauty of nature in the beautiful valleys of the Himalayas. We see some cities situated in the mountains which look very beautiful but there our nature has also been hurt in some way or the other.

Virendra says "All my works are abstract. To reach this point or peak of abstraction I have to work hard, day and night."

Dividing these spaces or creating different planes for perception, in the available artist's space are handled by Virendra with masterly dexterity and artistic sensitivity. Virendraji's creative process centers around the battle, between chance and control from which his energetic yet meditative paintings are born, this phenomenon happens through a series of spontaneous reactions based on intuition.

Virendra's abstract techniques continuously evolve through extreme experimentation, using custom handmade tools, chemicals and textures.

The end results are magnificent paintings, richly sensuous and sublime at the same time. Virendra Kumar is not only a versatile and prolific painter, he has also organized several artist camps, both in India and abroad. Virendra, is a multidimensional Artist who has worked with many different mediums, such as sculpture, photography and installation art.

Recipient of several national and international awards, his works have been exhibited in both solo and group exhibitions in major Galleries in India, U.K., U.ae., Thailand, Indonesia, Nepal, Uganda, Mauritius, Burma, Kuwait, including Fame Art Gallery in Belgium, Gallery of Light Dubai, Gallery 76 Dubai, Wilesden Gallery in London, Nehru Center Gallery in London and many private collections around the world. Virendra was featured on the Indian television channel DD Bharati, and many television Channels and his work can be found in corporate collections throughout India as well as in private collections worldwide.

Sumati Gangopadhyay 

( Senior Artist and Art Critic )

 M.S. University – Vadodara

Bulbul Rai Presents Solo Show of Paintings "Shreekanthaya" at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai

Renowned artist Bulbul Rai is set to unveil her latest solo exhibition, Shreekanthaya, at the prestigious Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai. This exhibition is an artistic exploration deeply rooted in the stories and teachings of Lord Shiva. From a young age, Bulbul Rai demonstrated a profound passion for art, refining her skills in drawing and painting since the age of five. After completing her education from Purvanchal University, she dedicated herself to the fine arts, focusing on religious and spiritual themes.

Artist - Bulbul Rai

Bulbul Rai, deeply devoted to Lord Shiva, draws her inspiration and passion for creativity from her spiritual connection, which has profoundly influenced her path. Her journey has been a meaningful exploration of expression, shaped by this devotion as well as her formal education in Ahmedabad. Over the years, Bulbul has showcased her work in numerous solo and group exhibitions at prominent galleries such as Kamalnayan Bajaj Gallery, Gallerie Leela, India Festival at Nehru Centre, Art Desh Gallery, and Prathamesh Gallery in Mumbai. She has also participated in notable camps and workshops, including the SCZCC Nagpur Annual Show, Hutheesing Gallery in Ahmedabad, and the Mysore Camp. Her contributions to initiatives like the Drawing Camp in Jaipur, workshops at Pratham Gallery, and exhibitions at the Mysore Museum have earned her recognition within the creative community.

Oil on canvas

The spiritual and religious narratives surrounding Lord Shiva inspire the Shreekanthaya show. Known for her vibrantly coloured and figurative style, Rai’s works vividly portray the deity’s life and teachings. Each artwork is an intimate reflection of Rai's deep reverence for Shiva, inviting viewers to engage with the religio-spiritual dimensions of his existence. Her canvases are imbued with layers of meaning and vibrant quality, encouraging motivation and personal reflection.

Bulbul Rai channels her devotion through her art, using bold colours and intricate figures to communicate the essence of the energy of Lord Shiva. Her works go beyond mere representation, offering a fusion of art and religion that allows viewers to connect with the metaphysical aspects of her subject.

Oil on canvas

Shreekanthaya promises to be a transformative experience for art lovers and spiritual seekers alike. Bulbul Rai invites audiences to journey into the depths of Lord Shiva’s timeless wisdom, forging a connection between the physical and metaphysical realms.

The exhibition will be on display at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, offering a unique opportunity to witness Bulbul Rai’s evocative and immersive works firsthand.

 From 28^th October to 3^rd November 2024

“Shreekanthaya”

Solo Show of Paintings by renowned artist Bulbul Rai

 

VENUE:

Jehangir Art Gallery

161-B, M.G. Road,

Kala Ghoda, Mumbai 400 001

Timing: 11am to 7pm

Contact: +91 8052977901

www.talesbybulbul.com

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