STATEMENT
In the past years, my work has been inspired by - my travels to the Far East. Fascinating & unique
creative processes have taken a new dimension. My stay in Singapore not only brought me close to the
rhythm of sea waves, but taught me to be `better than the best'. Japan showed me that true beauty lay in
Nature alone. My creativity was further enriched by the study of rural life in India. My art is simple and
needs no explanation and has a technical brilliance and serene environs. It brings warmth and cheer to its
viewers.
I went through the tedious study of the Japanese language for 7 years to understand the Japanese mind,
and their art. Seeing my dedication to their culture, the teachers and artists shared the secrets of
Nihonga, which have never been written in books. I also learnt Sumi-e, which is simplistic and catches the
spirit of nature in its true form. It is different from 'painting' as commonly understood in the West.
Amidst such serenity lay calm and solace. My creativity took a turn
to portraying realistic art forms which speak for themselves. Vivacious
rural folks in colorful attire. Folks that are contented and relaxed
despite adversities and blissfully ignorant of the urban tensions.
Through folk expressions I convey my emotions and love for life and
embark on a sentimental journey --far from the maddening hustle bustle
of urban life.
My present obsession is painting in these mediums derived from NATURE. Perhaps I love to live with natural
beauty and harmony, from which I derive greatest pleasure. I also love to portray my native Rajasthan, the
vivacity of which gels so well with these pigments.
Nihonga : involves the use of rock mineral pigments crushed into varying gradations, and multi-layered by
special brushes on hand made (washi) paper. They lend a unique texture and unparalled brilliance to my
paintings. These as opposed to the other mediums like oils and acrylics, which involve the use of
chemicals like turpentine oil, linseed oil and acrylic pigments & canvas.
Sumi-e: The monochrome, ink brush painting is a single strokes, using varying tones of black ink. I make
my own sumi and enjoy the simplicity and beauty of its outcome.
Exhibitions of my Sumi-e have brought wide critical acclaim as I merge Japanese themes and Indian motifs.
One media covering my Sumi-e exhibition said "Her heart is Indian but the heart beats are Japanese."
I consider myself fortunate to have been receiving support, encouragements and positive media responses
internationally, on the exhibitions of my paintings. This has helped me to-- move on.
This exhibition is a humble presentation of my experiments in contemporary Nihonga and Sumi-e.
Given an opportunity, I would like to spend my lifetime on perfecting these art forms.
I have far to go. My journey continues..
- Madhu
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