Thakare Naik’s artistic journey is inspiring from being unable to afford crutches to achieving recognition from the state, he still lives a simple life and expresses himself through his art
Visual artist Thakare Naik, from the Lambada tribe in Andhra Pradesh, has been working as a freelance artist for over 15 years. Living with a locomotor disability caused by polio, Naik’s practice centers around autobiographical themes, drawing attention to both the physical and social infrastructure surrounding disability.
His most recent body of work was exhibited at ABC 6.0, a group show organized by the Art Bengaluru Collective (ABC) at Rangoli Metro Art Centre, MG Road Metro Station, Bengaluru. The exhibition featured works by 24 artists from across India. Naik presented 16 mixed media pieces, each characterized by strong visual motifs and a meticulous use of materials.
Image Courtesy- Not Just Art
Naik’s Early Life and Education
Thakare Naik was born in Kalyanadurgam, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh. Diagnosed with polio at a young age, he experienced limited use of his right leg and hand. Due to poverty, he was placed in a government hostel for physically challenged children. For a period of nearly ten years, he lived independently, often begging for sustenance.
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A turning point came when his family located him in a market and re-enrolled him in school in Thimmapur. Here, he developed an interest in drawing, which gradually led to formal art education. After completing a four-year art course in Tirupati, Naik earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from Telugu University in Hyderabad, followed by a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Viswa Bharati University, Santiniketan.
Artistic Themes and Style in Thakare Naik’s work
Naik’s work often features assistive devices such as crutches, calipers, wheelchairs, and orthotic equipment. These elements are used symbolically and narratively to explore the lived experience of disability. His artworks include imagery such as electricity poles supported by crutches and superheroes wearing calipers, engaging with everyday functionality and imagined empowerment.
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He avoids using photographic references, preferring to draw from direct observation and lived experience. His art reflects a range of subjects including social commentary, urban spaces, and cultural identity.
Thackeray Naik’s Ongoing Practice
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Naik is currently focused on documenting the traditions of the Lambada community, particularly their embroidery techniques, festivals, and wedding customs. He continues to work despite financial constraints and emphasizes that disability does not limit intellectual or creative capacity. “Disability is only about a part of your body. Our mind is still whole. We can still imagine, create, and tell stories,” he states.
Feature Image courtesy- Not Just Art
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