The striking thing about this exhibition is that all the pieces are exactly the same size, with the same frames, same title and the same price. Each work is black & white with a few splashes of colour executed in mixed media.
The artist’s background in illustration shines through each work. The attention to the minutest details in each work, whether the designs on the clothing, the pieces of jewellery adorning the women, the utensils or the foliage is exquisite. There are numerous pieces on display and each is well executed. Most of the paintings are of tribal women covered in more jewellery than cloth. What struck me was that, in this collection, the women were not made to look stunningly gorgeous as one might expect. They are painted in a slightly disfigured manner; arms are disproportionately long, necks are curved. Their eyes are vacant of expression. If they are meant to be in trance then it shows. The depiction of the women conveyed to me the artist’s obsession to show his females as titillating, evil temptresses – alluringly dressed & posed, with locks flowing. The few well proportioned men depicted are all standing with their backs to the women, conveying strong willpower not to give in to their seductions.
The series is inspired by ancient esoteric rituals & supernatural practices of the 21st century. To me, though there is nothing 21st century about the paintings. The characters attire & the backgrounds look ancient.
There is a marked lack of variety in not only in the size, price etc but also in the artist’s expression. It verges on being monotonous. I felt the artist is staying in his comfort zone, is it a lack of confidence in trying something new or in uninhibited expression? I would have loved to see what the artist can do on a larger canvas.
Another concern from an investment point of view: The artist has been showing since 1973. Why are the pieces priced at only Rs.8,000? If at this stage in his career this is his asking price & his work shows inhibition to move out of his comfort zone, what are the chances of a decent return on investment? I think art collectors are looking for unique pieces which are bold & confident. Art which expresses something about themselves & therefore they can connect to & want to buy. I do not see many potential investors for this series.
The show is worth a viewing. But remember to take your driver as there is no parking in the vicinity of the gallery.
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