As I strolled through the artworks of twelve modern Indian artists showcased in the ongoing exhibition at Siddhartha Art Gallery in Babar Mahal, Kathmandu, ‘Collective Expressions from India’, which runs until April 22, I couldn’t help but recall Leonardo da Vinci and Voltaire, as both viewed painting as akin to poetry, mirroring the sentiment I experienced during my visit.

Vinci famously stated, “Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is a painting that is felt rather than seen.” Similarly, Voltaire believed that “painting is poetry without words.” Reflecting on these statements of the Renaissance men while contemplating the contemporary paintings before me, I was also reminded of the classical philosopher Plato’s views on art.

Plato considered art to be mimetic, an imitation of life that exists in the “world of ideas”, which he deemed as the ultimate reality. So, why did these paintings feel like poetry to me? Was it because artists perceive concrete things in their existence, and their art serves as shadowy representations of the ideal? Or perhaps because a single painting can convey ideas and emotions that would require thousands of words in poetry? Alternatively, could it be because I was witnessing the artist’s inner state and their reflection of the external world?

The answer might be one of these possibilities, a combination of all of them, or perhaps none at all. However, one thing is certain: the ongoing exhibition ‘Collective Expressions from India’ invites viewers to reflect and contemplate, bridging the gap from everyday life to the realms of the Renaissance, classical period, modernism, postmodernism and the contemporary world.

Today confusion is evident across society, especially in politics and social media, where irrationality and absurdity prevail. Despite this chaos, Indian artists are using their art to navigate and make sense of the disorder, as showcased in the exhibition.

Curated by Hem Rana, ‘Collective Expressions from India’ displays a collection of artworks with varied stories that capture the attention of viewers and invite them to explore different aspects of beauty and abstract ideas.

Rana believes that the exhibition showcases all the artists’ unique perspectives that go beyond individual boundaries and celebrate diversity. For example, CR Hembram’s artworks reflect the rich and diverse culture of the Santal community, while Mahesh M Mankar’s pieces delve into the challenges and rules of modern society.

Amit Kalla’s art, which he actually calls ‘visual poetry’, invites viewers to explore thoughts going against the norm. Vasanthula Rama Krishna captures city life, while Himmat Gayri’s drawings are inspired by Rajasthani stories. Meghansh’s paintings prompt self-reflection and Shrikant Ranga blends modern and traditional Indian art. Likewise, Ravi Thakur’s art reflects emotions and connections.

As reflected in the title of the exhibition, ‘Collective Expression’, the exhibition showcases a diverse collection of thoughts and expressions, blending modernity with tradition. It delves into the conflicts faced by artists and their interaction with the external world, while also exploring the pursuit of life’s truths.

Additionally, the exhibition serves as a symbol of the bond between Nepali and Indian cultures. Many artworks, such as Gayri’s Rajasthani drawings and Ranga’s painting ‘Chandrayan 2’, reveal similarities in deities, culture and lifestyle shared between the two nations. The exhibition is proof of how art transcends geopolitical boundaries and political agendas, creating connections between people, cultures, and shared human experiences.

In an interview with Post’s Aarati Ray, Amit Kalla, one of the artists of the exhibition shares how he fuses poetry and conscience in his art, and the beauty of Eastern art.

What do you believe is essential in art?

In my view, art requires aesthetics, sublimity and consciousness. Aesthetics embodies the philosophy of art. Additionally, I believe we all must adopt a philosophical approach. Philosopher in the sense that one should ‘inquire’, engaging in constant inquiry within ourselves and about the world. Finally, imagination is another vital element.

Which artist has influenced you the most?

Mark Rothko is an artist I greatly admire. During my early career, I drew much inspiration from his monochromatic paintings. I think about Rothko and Van Gogh a lot. They tragically ended their lives too soon, but I wonder if they would have found nirvana had they lived in Nepal or India.

You draw in a black dot in most of your paintings. Is there a specific reason for that?

Yes, you’ll often see a black dot in my paintings. I add it after finishing the painting, but it’s not a ‘nazar ka tika’ (mark on the forehead to ward off bad luck).

For me, it’s like the centre or main focus of my paintings. While many artists prefer not to have a single focal point in their work, I’ve found that having one is like a quirk in my work. It’s also because I’ve had a spiritual upbringing, even though I paint in a Western style. I believe that everyone should find their own centre or focal point in life because when we do, we find ourselves.

You’re both a painter and a poet. Do you see yourself more as a painter or a poet? Which do you like better?

I consider myself an artist whose works blend elements of poetry and painting. I often refer to my paintings as ‘visual poetry’; I believe my works embody both poetry and painting.

Everyone should engage in poetry writing to truly be an artist. Both poetry and painting are not just means to an outcome, but processes, each possessing qualities of sublimity and imagination.

Did you begin your journey as a poet or a painter?

I initially started as a poet before painting. Poetry holds a significant place in our culture, with texts like the Veds and epics like the Ramayan and Mahabharat being examples.

Poetry has always been a fundamental part of my upbringing. Additionally, I believe that the entire South Asian region, including the Indian subcontinent, is rich in poetry, creativity and imagination.

What are your thoughts on Nepal? Have you had the chance to visit any places there?

I visited Pashupatinath, Swayambhu and some areas of Patan Durbar Square. Kathmandu, in particular, feels like an open museum of art and creativity. Without experiencing Nepal firsthand, I believe my understanding of art would have been limited. Although I couldn’t explore much this time, I will be returning soon for more.