Capturing the colours of India

The world has nothing to offer but negativity. Through my vibrant palette, I have brought out some amount of positivity,” says artist Paresh Maity.   Known best for his bright and warm watercolour works, the Delhi-based artist  has recently established himself with oils on canvas, sculptures and installations as well — all of which are on display at the Gallery Sumukha at Alwarpet as part of the ongoing Art Chennai festival. The art scene in India is changing, Maity observes, elaborating that people have become more accommodating in terms of appreciating modern art. He states, “I think Art Chennai is a wonderful initiative, especially because art events are being organised at public spaces all over the city.” He adds for emphasis, “The exposure is greater compared to the India Art Fair.”Looking back, Maity’s journey from a clay toy maker in a small district of West Bengal to a renowned artist hasn’t been a cake walk. With his father in conflict with his work and a lower-middle class background, Maity made the choice to abandon his hometown and pursue his dream of learning fine arts in Kolkata. “I was brought up in a small town and had no access to fancy art materials,” he explains. “I had to make do with watercolour. The beauty of this medium is something one cannot control,” states the 47-year-old, who attempts to capture the colours of India and its people on his canvas. He recalls, “On one of my trips to Rajasthan, I was introduced to an extensive palette of colours which still continue to inspire my works.”  The one installation which is sure to draw attention in his showcase is the smartly-designed ‘Ants’. The installation has been made using petrol tanks and headlights of motorbikes. The headlights form the head of the ant and two petrol tanks which form the node-like structure.Although this painter’s style of art may borrow a technique or two from cubism, its roots are clearly from the vibrancy and spirit of India. “My recent works are nothing less than a celebration of life,” Maity summarises. “It’s about people, happiness, relationships, and intimacy. In a nutshell, the brighter side of life,” he smiles. Paresh Maity’s  artwork is on display at Gallery Sumukha till March 31.