It is a deep desire to create art that does not just punctuate gallery walls, but that evokes a visceral emotional and cultural response that is the axis upon which Manish Solanki’s artistic journey intersecting these two distinct realms pivots. Based out of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Solanki derives inspiration from childhood games, a common thread that binds generations. Based out of the main city of India, Mumbai, he pursued a diploma in Drawing and Painting from Sheth C. N. College of Fine Arts followed by an MFA in Creative Portrait Painting from M. J. College. His work holds a close resonance with something that personifies shared memory, cultural integrity, and playfulness.
Solanki’s art captures the tactile simplicity of bygone games, set against the digital realities of the present. His textured brushwork, earthy hues, and bright highlights animate play symbols, such as marbles and caroms. With his evocative series he challenges viewers to reconnect with the universal pleasure of play together and ponder the dominated sociocultural relationship of modernity.
An experiential artist, Solanki’s work is less about observation and more about evoking feelings of nostalgia and connection. His love of childhood games crystallised into the award-winning public art installation that led to his first prize from the 2015 Gujarat State Lalit Kala Academy, he works alongside artists from around the world in The Woven Tale Press and all that creative goodness. The artist’s works have been part of several prominent exhibitions, including the 103rd All India Annual Art Exhibition as well as the National Exhibitions of the Lalit Kala Akademi, Delhi.
In his practice, Solanki reflects on the past and gazes into a rapidly shifting realm. His work spans generations, inviting conversations about how play informs collective humanity. Honouring the beauty and teachings of traditional games ages well, creating a timeless, cultural crossover.
Feature Image:Minimalism is Not a Lack of Something by Manish Solanki| courtesy: Abir Space
Iftikar Ahmed is a New Delhi-based art writer & researcher.
