The fantasized works by Sakti Burman take one into another realm that is beyond the illusion of imagination. His works delve deeper into the realms of mythology, delving into the very essence of reality and seeking to unravel its hidden truths. His skilful integration of European artistic qualities with Indian mythology and narratives from ancient stories creates a captivating fusion that immerses you in his artwork, evoking a powerful sense of diaspora. Throughout history, artists have constantly ventured into the realm of different mediums. Frequently, their unique motifs take refuge in the captivating world of three-dimensional artwork, particularly in the form of sculpture. The visionary creators showcase their immense versatility and creativity by meticulously crafting these masterpieces using a diverse range of materials, including bronze, fibreglass, and mixed media.
It is important to emphasize that his experiment of rewriting the fusion of history serves as a captivating anecdote that enhances our comprehension of observing the past from an entirely new standpoint. Sculpted Sagas by Sakti Burman represents a natural progression of his extensive body of work, known for its meticulous attention to detail and profound captivation with the human and mythological figure. His sculptural oeuvre is an exploration of the various motifs that define his body of work composed of elements and characters borrowed from traditional Indian mythologies such as Shiva or Krishna or the saga of Samudra Manthan which explains the origin of the elixir of eternal life re-interpreted in a European fashion exhibiting Burman’s unique visual language. What truly impresses me is Sakti’s remarkable talent for crafting an entirely fresh narrative derived from pre-existing tales, encompassing even the depiction of Ganesha seated on Shiva’s lap. I mean it’s interesting to inquire about such kinds of stories in such an interesting way that it emerge critically and leave an impact that stays for long.
Burman, the creator of this universe, exudes an overwhelming sense of exuberant joy. His art is a marvellous collection of stories that range from his own rich repository of memories to captivating myths. Each piece is a captivating saga that transcends time, making the artist and his work timeless. When asked about the artist’s style Sunaina Anand, the gallerist shared her views. “Sakti Burman is a legend of Indian Art. I met him first in 2002 in Paris, and I visited his studio. I knew about him, but I didn’t see his work much till then and when I met him there, I was very intrigued to see how fabulous his memories of India a country where he spent his childhood and a country where he’s spent his adult life. He skillfully intertwined the cultures of both countries, infusing his works with a captivating blend of European and Indian influences. However, his art goes beyond mere cultural fusion; it delves into the rich tapestry of his own family heritage.
He is a very rooted family man. So, you see all these figures emerge from there. In his heartfelt artworks, whether on canvas or in sculptures, the subjects are always close to Suraj’s heart. His beloved grandsons, cherished daughters, loyal friends, innocent children, and many more hold a special place in his heart. Moreover, it is truly remarkable how he approaches his subjects in his artwork, skillfully incorporating the profound influences from his time as a European student and the museums that have greatly impacted his work. In most of his works, mythology came in after his visit to India. So, whether it is goddess Durga, the deity, or Samudra Manthan. These are all stories that he heard, and it’s important to see how he blended all of his experiences together. That became his style and he explored it in many ways. The figures keep emerging with different figures, so they create new stories every time. So, it’s almost like theatre, it’s always like performance where you see so many characters come and go, some European, some Indian, and some mythological, and they all combine harmoniously. in one life.”
Burman’s relief works are a captivating showcase of various cultures, expertly intertwining their key elements to create an exhilarating mise-en-scène within his mystical universe. When asked about the overall components and qualities of Sakti’s works, she replied, “What truly sets Sakti Burman’s artwork apart is the captivating way he breathes life into it, skillfully articulating each piece.” The way he is able to fine-tune it. There’s not much and there’s no less in his works. Creating balance is crucial, and he has been honored with the highest civilian award in France for his exceptional achievements in promoting cultural fusion. Indeed, he has become a cultural ambassador of India, residing in France. He’s moved from France now, it’s been seven to eight years. That’s where his life was in, and when you speak to him, he speaks in Bangla, talking about his childhood. But, when he is drawing, you see a Trojan horse but the man who is sitting on it looks like a Rajasthani man.
His art stands out as truly unique, as he skillfully merges diverse elements together. Achieving a flawless integration like this is a feat that will likely be unmatched by any other Indian artist, especially one from the diaspora. He was an Indian artist living in France and trying to pick up French influence into his canvas. He was awarded by the French ambassador in India by the French government. The works that we’re showing now, ‘the sculpted sagas’ basically are all stories. The characters from different stories are able to pick them up whether there is goddess Durga or Shiva. His work is very lyrical, very poetic, and gives a kind of feeling that is different. At this stage, he has been working on it for the last three and half years, and we’ve been collecting and exhibiting together. So it’s a small collection, so seven reliefs work or seven sculptures, and it’s an honor to work with him.”
When asked about the selection process, she responded “For me as a gallerist, it’s always a kind of intuition. Actually, there’s a lot to do with the intuition. Because I respond to certain artists’ works, I believe in their work. I see the sense of honesty in their work. There’s a sense of continuation in their work and that’s how I see the artists. When we started Agradoot: The Agents of Change, in that show we had two younger artists. Radhika Surana is a textile artist, whose creations exude a remarkable sense of authenticity and unwavering dedication. There’s no pretension in her work. The artist reflects his personality and belief in his art. That’s what true art is, and it’s important for me as a gallerist to see it in this way. One more exceptional artist was none other than Ayesha Seth. She is an incredibly feminist woman, deeply sensitive, and her ability to channel these qualities into her work is truly extraordinary. She has managed to build an entirely unique world, showcasing her remarkable talents. I was asking her, and she told me that each of her work is based on her mood.” The exhibition is on view till 30th October, 2023 at Art Alive Gallery.
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