PUNE: The city’s favorite art hub, Vesavar Art Gallery, marked its inaugural year of creative brilliance with great enthusiasm. The gallery, in collaboration with Treasure Art Gallery from Delhi as co-curator, proudly unveiled ‘Saga’ – a captivating exhibition by one of the greatest abstract painters in India, Prabhakar Kolte.

Known for his mastery in the realms of poetic and metaphysical abstractionism, Prabhakar Kolte, aged 78, brought his distinguished artworks to Vesavar Art Gallery for the first time. His journey from humble beginnings as a freelance illustrator to a renowned artist was nothing short of remarkable. Kolte’s artistic journey was deeply intertwined with meditation, drawing inspiration from the spiritual teachings of Marathi Sant Dnyaneshwar’s Bhagavad Gita commentary.

His paintings embody a vibrant artistic life, pulsating with the essence of existence itself. They resonate with life’s solemn tones and luminosity, captivating the viewer’s inner being through visual engagement. Kolte’s paintings reflect his desire to infuse specific energies into his art. Whether dark, light, or bright, his works demonstrate a shift towards a richer chromatic palette, departing from the stark, pale, monochromatic grounds of his earlier years.

Expressing his happiness to showcase his work after almost two decades, Prabhakar Kolte shared, “My artistic voyage commenced with simple black and white sketches, gradually evolving to embrace a spectrum of colors. Initially, I relied on rudimentary canvas tools. With three decades in the industry, my art revolves solely around expression; the idea is never preconceived before it meets the canvas.

I’m very happy to be back in this city after so long. And feel grateful to the founders of the gallery who have created such a beautiful space for art lovers.”

The prestigious exhibition was inaugurated by Sabina Sanghvi, the multifaceted entrepreneur and media personality, who has championed many social causes. “Team Vesavar’s unwavering belief in art, the city, and the artists is truly commendable. I’m delighted to inaugurate this exhibition and I’m committed to promoting young artists, musicians, and dancers from Pune as it is known as the cultural capital. Prabhakar Sir’s paintings are truly remarkable, and I anticipate enjoying them for years to come. The art of this stature cannot be consumed and understood in just one visit. It’s powerful and requires multiple viewings to fully appreciate. Kudos to the team,” Sanghvi expressed.

The founder of Vesavar, Kavita Bhandari said, “On this remarkable occasion of our one-year anniversary, we’re thrilled to announce that Vesavar Art Gallery has completed 10 exhibitions. It’s been an incredible journey for us, filled with growth and achievement.”

Co-founder, Pranali Harpude added, “From our humble beginnings to this significant milestone, we’ve been fortunate to have the unwavering support of the Bhandari family. We’re immensely grateful for the trust and belief showed by all the artists. This anniversary marks not only a celebration of our accomplishments but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to fostering artistic expression in our community.“

Visitors to Vesavar Art Gallery have the opportunity to experience Prabhakar Kolte’s collection firsthand, delving into the profound beauty of his artwork showcased during the exhibition.

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The gallery is set to be opened on 3rd March 2024 at 11 am at Shreeram Lagoo Rang Avakash at the hands of distinguished artist Sudhir Patwardhan in the presence of Artist Jayant Joshi and Artist Sudhakar Chavhan as the chief guests of the opening ceremony.

Speaking about the initiative, Pramod Kale- Co-ordinator, of Pune Gallery for Visual Arts, said, “ Pune has a rich heritage of Visual Art, however there is no dedicated place for connoisseurs to visit and appreciate this art form created by art stalwarts. This was the thought behind setting up a permanent art gallery at MCC Hub which will house Visual Art by legendary artists of today and yesteryears”.

Rajesh Deshmukh- Secretary of the Maharashtra Cultural Centre said, “Maharashtra Cultural Centre is always looking at ways to promote art forms of varied kinds. For the display at Pune Gallery For Visual Art, we invited artists to submit one creation each to our gallery and we received an overwhelming response from all of them. We are trying to get copies of the Artwork of deceased artists whose original artwork is now not available”.

The Pune Gallery of Visual Arts will showcase paintings, sketches, photographs, and sculptures by renowned artists like Sudhir Patwardhan, Suhas Bahulkar, Bhaskar Hande, Jayant Joshi, Satish Paknikar, Milind Dhere, Sandesh Bhandare, Sudhakar Chavan and many more young and budding artists.

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PUNE: The renowned art destination of Pune, Vesavar Art Gallery, has opened its new solo art exhibition ‘Of Skies & Friends’ by a well-known artist, Jayant Bhimsen Joshi. Highlighting the realms of abstraction, the exhibition features acrylic paintings capturing the canvas of the sky on the birth ceremony of his father, Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.

Known for his visual art of abstract paintings, Jayant Joshi has a deep commitment to his craft. He represents the intuition and the liberation found in embracing the unpredictable. In the dance between chaos and order, he relinquishes control and allows the canvas to breathe and speak to him in its own language.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. Atul Goel, Director, of Goel Ganga Group, and his wife Amrita Atul Goel, Director, of Maati.

At Vesavar Art Gallery, visitors can witness his collection of seven acrylic paintings on canvas of the sky showcasing the God of all who are naive, poker, statesman, and fluid. The ones that have created consciousness in us. The exhibition also features the paintings of 20 faces mixed media on canvas.

According to the artist, the sky and familiar people are the main part of our worldly, practical, and spiritual formation. “Only ignorance is stored in the mind. The one that does not cross, endless but economical, sometimes it unfolds many contexts, while often it is an abomination of spiritual support. And then the perceived illusion is painted on the canvases,” narrates Jayant Joshi.

The artistic journey of Jayant Joshi has been inspired by his parents, his father, renowned classical musician Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, and his mother Vatsala Bhimsen Joshi. He has extensively traveled around the world to capture the abstractions in Visual Arts as well as in Music. Imagining and contemplating the scale, depth, and grandeur of nature.

About Vesavar Art Gallery:

Vesavar Art Gallery, located in Pune Camp, is housed in a picturesque heritage building dating back to 1926. The gallery’s design pays homage to the building’s original structure, seamlessly blending heritage aesthetics with contemporary art. With its prime location and accessible space, Vesavar Art Gallery aims to provide a platform for Indian artists to showcase their talents and create an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and visitors alike.

When: 10.30 am to 7.30 pm, February to Onwards

Where: Vesavar Art Gallery, MG Pune Central, East Street, Pune

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Founded by the visionary Sanya Malik, an independent art dealer, curator, and writer, Black Cube has consistently represented numerous established and emerging Indian artists since its inception. The gallery’s participation in Art Mumbai 2023 marks a significant milestone in its journey of promoting eminent Indian modern and contemporary artists.

Black Cube will occupy a prominent booth in the modern art section of the fair and contribute to the Sculpture Garden within the outdoor grounds of the event. The booth will showcase the works of renowned artists such as Himmat Shah, Jogen Chowdhury, Krishen Khanna, Thota Vaikuntam, Manu Parekh, Madhvi Parekh, Arunkumar HG, Phaneendra Nath Chaturvedi, Valay Shende, and Yashika Sugandh. Meanwhile, the Sculpture Garden will exhibit pieces by Phaneendra Nath Chaturvedi, Dhananjay Singh, and Valay Shende, all of which are captivating sculptures.

These artworks encompass a range of materials, from bronze with patina to stainless steel. Jogen Chowdhury, Krishen Khanna, Thota Vaikuntam, Manu Parekh, and Madhvi Parekh have each made their mark in the art world through their unique artistic styles. However, this exhibition showcases a shift in the medium of self-expression for these artists, representing a transition from “paint to patina”.

In addition to these esteemed modernists, Black Cube will also feature contemporary Indian artists who push the boundaries of tradition and share a profound interest in the harmonious connection between nature and the mysterious animal world. Phaneendra Nath Chaturvedi, Valay Shende, and Yashika Sugandh are among the artists whose works will be showcased.

Black Cube’s participation in Art Mumbai 2023 is a testament to its commitment to promoting modern Indian and contemporary art on prestigious platforms. The gallery’s founder, Sanya Malik, has developed close relationships with Indian artists over the last decade working in the industry. With Black Cube, Sanya aims to promote their practices and showcase them on prestigious platforms.

Art enthusiasts can book their tickets for Art Mumbai 2023 at https://insider.in/art-mumbai-2023-nov17-2023/event?fbclid=PAAaZtyuEe3XnNF_s4dcfnxVCSQvygY0iqBeHLeHmNtzlEsyfSEYio5n6uXNQ.

PARTICIPATING ARTISTS

Himmat Shah – Born in 1933, is a versatile Indian sculptor known for his unpredictable style. His work spans bronzes, showcasing innovation and artistic evolution. Trained as a drawing teacher, he studied art in Baroda and Paris and was part of Group 1890. Shah’s art includes drawings, sculptures, and murals, exhibited globally, earning him accolades like the Kalidasa Samman.

Jogen Chowdhury –  Born in 1939 in Bengal, is known for blending traditional and contemporary elements in his art. His work reflects the influence of his troubled upbringing in Calcutta, with themes related to political movements and social issues. He studied in Kolkata and Paris and has exhibited internationally. Awards include Prix le France de la Jeune Peinture and the Kalidas Sanman.

 Krishen Khanna – Born in 1925 in what is now Pakistan, grew up in Lahore, and later moved to India due to the Partition in 1947. His figurative artwork captures historical moments with spontaneity and vibrant color. He was part of the Progressive Artists’ Group and exhibited widely in India and abroad. Khanna’s honors include the Padma Shri and Lalit Kala Ratna. He currently resides in New Delhi.

Thota Vaikuntam –  from  Andhra Pradesh, South India, is known for his vibrant paintings inspired by rural life. His work often features men and women from his village, with a particular focus on Telangana women. Strong lines, fine strokes, and the use of primary colors characterize his art. Vaikuntam was born in 1942, studied painting in Hyderabad and Baroda, and has exhibited his work in various galleries across India and internationally. He received the National Award for Painting in 1993 and continues to create art in Hyderabad.

Manu Parekh –  Born in 1939 in Gujarat, Manu Parekh, a graduate of the Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, has dedicated his art to exploring the relationship between man and nature. His works exude vibrant colors and bold lines that embody the energy he seeks to capture. Parekh’s art is a dynamic interplay of contradictions, evoking emotion and anguish in the viewer. Parekh’s career began in 1968 with a solo exhibition in Ahmedabad, and he has since held numerous exhibitions worldwide. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shree from the Government of India in 1992. Currently residing and working in New Delhi, Manu Parekh continues to captivate audiences with his captivating and energetic art.

Madhvi Parekh – Madhvi Parekh, hailing from the rural village of Sanjaya in Gujarat, draws from her rural roots to create stylized folk art. Madhvi’s paintings weave fantasy and early experiences into a dreamlike narrative. Her art is marked by fresh spontaneity and flexible compositions, offering a surreal quality. Her work often conveys a sense of emancipation, freeing humanity from the constraints of mechanical time. Madhvi has an extensive exhibition history dating back to 1972, with nearly a hundred solo and group shows worldwide.

Phaneendra Nath Chaturvedi – Phaneendra Nath Chaturvedi, born in Varanasi in 1981, unapologetically unveils the grotesque, robotic nature he perceives in the individuals he portrays in his large-format works. His art dissects the artificiality of appearances and the corruption present in contemporary human existence. With a BFA and MFA in painting from the University of Lucknow’s Faculty of Fine Arts, Chaturvedi’s stark and provocative creations have earned him recognition, including the Vishisth Pratibha Samman and awards from the Ministry of Culture. He continues to challenge viewers’ perceptions of humanity.

Valay Shende – Valay Shende, born in 1980 in Nagpur, is a video artist and sculptor capturing contemporary urban issues. Trained at the Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, his work bridges the gap between modern industrial views and traditional religious ones in India. Shende’s sculptures, built from minute metal discs and non-traditional materials, challenge conventional ideas of sculpture. He exhibits internationally and combines video art with sculptural installations to provide fresh perspectives on everyday life. His work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions worldwide, including Zurich, Mumbai, and various international locations, reflecting his keen observations and societal concerns.

Yashika Sugandh  – Yashika Sugandh is a distinguished visual artist hailing from Delhi – NCR, holding a Master of Fine Arts Degree achieved in 2017. Her professional journey as an artist commenced in the same year, and she has since made an indelible mark on the art scene. Yashika has showcased her work in numerous prestigious exhibitions, including the India Art Fair, Birla Academy of Art and Culture, Jehangir Art Gallery, ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations), Lalit Kala Akademi, IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre For The Arts), HT City Imagine Fest, Artbuzz Studios, and Emergent Art Space.

Yashika Sugandh’s exceptional talent has garnered recognition, earning her the City Award for Delhi in Kalanand Art by Prafulla Dahanukar Art Foundation in 2017, and the All-India Merit Grant for lockdown Art by the same foundation in 2021. Her educational journey is equally impressive, with an MFA in Painting from Amity University, Noida, and a BFA in Painting from the same institution. Yashika’s artistry is a testament to her dedication and passion, and her participation in various exhibitions reflects her commitment to the world of visual arts. Her work continues to captivate and inspire art enthusiasts nationwide.
Arunkumar HG – Born in Karnataka, Arunkumar H.G completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Fine Art from M.S. University, Baroda. Arunkumar’s sustained artistic investigation into a diversity of ecological concerns brings forth disharmonies, which are created by rampant consumerist culture. This spread is in inverse proportion to the great decline of natural resources and habitats. With each work, Arunkumar brings in his own local, historical, and cultural milieu. The work becomes a generative rather than a conclusive commentary on his concerns regarding the environment at large.

Dhananjay Singh – Dhananjay Singh, born in 1977 in Bihar, is a sculptor whose unique works blend bronze and copper wire, intricately entwined to create near-human scale sculptures and drawings. He has received numerous accolades, including the Commonwealth Arts and Crafts Award and the National Lalit Kala Akademi Award. Inspired during a residency in Melbourne, Singh’s art is an exploration of complex networks and human figures. His art has been featured in solo and group exhibitions, demonstrating his innovative approach to sculpture.

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