A recently launched exhibition sets out to probe the subconscious and foster the perpetual existence of the inner child. Prayag Shukla is a master at crafting one-of-a-kind abstract paintings. Initially, his work exhibits a vibrant and cheerful appearance, yet upon further examination, it unveils intricate layers of complexity. Other colours do not detract from the message conveyed in his work, thanks to his deliberate brushstrokes and lines.
Untitled. Image Courtesy: Gallery Pioneer
Prayag Shukla, an esteemed Hindi poet, was born in 1940 in Calcutta. He also gained recognition as a writer of untrue stories, an art critic, and a planner for exhibitions. Growing up amidst the tranquil atmosphere of a Bengali community, he developed a profound reverence for literature and books. Their significance was not limited to his family alone; it extended to the entire community. This was particularly true because his father happened to be the esteemed proprietor of the renowned bookstore, ‘Kalicharan and Company’. During the 1960s, he relocated to Delhi and pursued a career as an independent writer, not affiliated with any particular company. Immersed in the captivating artworks of Ram Kumar’s studio at Gol Market, he discovered a deep wellspring of inspiration for his own work.
Untitled. Image Courtesy: Gallery Pioneer
Art in India experienced significant growth and development during both the 1960s and the 1970s. Prayagji, who is fondly referred to by this name, would spend his evenings partaking in culturally enlightening art exhibitions, music shows, and theatre performances. At the beginning of 2020, he sadly lost his younger daughter Varshita Venkatesh to cancer. In that March, the whole world was affected by the Covid outbreak. At the age of 80, feeling sad about losing someone and being alone, he turned to writing as a way to express his feelings. However, instead of using words, emotions decided to show themselves through lines. Uncertain black lines slowly turned into bits of colour. Prayag Shukla, an exceptionally gifted artist, achieved a momentous feat in his journey as he showcased his first-ever solo exhibition at the renowned Dhoomimal Gallery in New Delhi. This momentous occasion took place as the world was gradually recovering from the challenges of the pandemic.
Untitled. Image Courtesy: Gallery Pioneer
Gallerist Sidhant shared his views on his works, “Prayag ji is someone I consider as my grandfather. My dad is really good friends with him. So, when I first met him last year in September, we had a show displaying artwork by artists from Bihar. When I met him, we had a lot of energy. He enjoys watching me as a young businessperson and possibly a future art gallery owner. He helped me through the years and we had been planning to do this exhibition for a long time. We decided to showcase his work right after summer, as we had promised last year. He organized the exhibition to honour his late daughter Varsha ji, who unfortunately passed away due to COVID-19. I remember that she told her dad to keep painting. After the COVID situation, he discovered his passion for painting once more. Coming from a background of studying and creating art, writing, and painting allowed him to have a unique perspective on the world. He adds his own special style to most of his paintings. He would sit with the older artists of his era and while they talked, he learned how to do what they do. His writing is more powerful than his paintings, but when he combines writing and painting, it has a strong effect.”
Untitled. Image Courtesy: Gallery Pioneer
When asked about Prayag ji’s style, he replied “it’s all about the thoughts and feelings that happen without us realizing it. Some of his artwork shows bright landscapes, mountains, birds, and other things. Some people think the style is too childish, but it’s what keeps their inner child alive. At first, there were some basic drawings of him. But as he continued his journey, he started using oil paints and other materials instead. His way of painting is special and the lines he makes in his art show a story. I asked Prayag ji if he wanted to name all his works, and he said it makes it easier for people to understand them. Titles give a lot of information and prevent viewers from imagining things.”
Untitled. Image Courtesy: Gallery Pioneer
Nature is shown in his works through trees, skies, butterflies, birds, the sun, and the moon. Memories come to mind when we see things like broken walls, stairs going up, windows, and paths. The titles presented provide us with captivating insights into the inner realm of a writer and artist. They unveil their heartfelt passion and profound bond with the benevolence that resides within the natural world. Once upon a time, there was a man who encountered challenging and sorrowful moments. However, rather than succumbing to sadness, he made a brave choice to embrace a joyous existence by discovering a fresh means of self-expression.
Untitled. Image Courtesy: Gallery Pioneer
Every morning, he has a routine of either painting or writing. He does this either at home or outside under a tree. He really loves to travel, and this makes him feel alive and refreshed. It gives him inspiration and new ideas. His artwork clearly reflects his self-assurance as an artist who relies on his own artistic instincts rather than conforming to established techniques or rules. He uses black lines to draw on paper. On occasion, the appearance of raindrops on playgrounds resembles a light and playful sensation, while at other times it takes on a more profound and sombre quality, resembling tall and sturdy buildings. Colors, including black, can show happiness. Nature exists everywhere and keeps going.
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