Meditations on Trees
Author: Ompal Sansanwal
Publisher: Aleph Book Company (www.alephbookcompany.com)
Available on demand
Ompal Sansanwal’s passion for trees and nature shines through every page of his book. His art whispers tales of resilience and interconnectedness - a heartfelt tribute to nature’s enduring grace, says SAKSHI PRIYA
Meditations on Trees by Ompal Sansanwal, co-published by Aleph Book Company and Black Cube Gallery, is a breathtaking journey into the heart of nature’s timeless beauty and spiritual significance. Through a masterful fusion of art and philosophy, Sansanwal invites readers to contemplate the majesty of trees and their profound connection to human experience.
At the core of Sansanwal’s work are his stunning paintings of banyan trees which serve as powerful symbols of life, growth, and unity. With each brushstroke, the artist captures the essence of these ancient trees, infusing them with a sense of liveliness and wisdom that transcends time. His cityscapes, devoid of human figures yet brimming with life, offer a poignant reflection on the harmony between urban development and the natural world.
Meditations on Trees offers a profound exploration of an artist’s deeper connection with nature, particularly with trees, as a source of inspiration and reflection. Through a rich collection of artworks and insightful commentary, the book takes readers on a visual and spiritual journey, inviting them to contemplate the beauty and significance of trees in our lives. One of the key themes that resonate through the book is Sansanwal’s view of trees as metaphors for life.
He sees them as symbols of strength, resilience, and interconnectedness, much like the complexities of human existence. This perspective is beautifully captured in his depiction of ancient banyan trees, with their aerial prop roots and sprawling trunks, mirroring the intricate web of relationships and experiences that shape our lives.
The book also delves into Sansanwal’s exploration of urban landscapes, particularly cityscapes. These paintings, characterised by softened hues and the gentle play of light, offer a serene glimpse into the rhythm of urban life, highlighting the harmony that exists between man-made structures and the natural world. Central to Sansanwal’s artistic vision is his deep spiritual connection with nature. His paintings of the Nataraja using the banyan tree’s branches and his portrayal of Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill are symbolic of his reverence for the divine in nature. His art not only celebrates the aesthetics of the natural world but also invites viewers to contemplate the deeper spiritual meanings embedded in them.
In addition to his spiritual reflections, Sansanwal’s artistic process is also explored in the book. His meticulous studies of trees and foliage in monochromatic pen and ink drawings reveal his keen observation of nature’s intricate details. These studies, combined with his use of light and shadow, showcase his mastery of technique and his ability to evoke a sense of wonder and awe in the viewer.
The book also pays tribute to the influences the artist draws his inspirations from, which include French artist Georges Seurat and German writer Hermann Hesse. His study of Seurat’s work inspired his techniques and processes, while Hesse’s writings on nature resonated deeply with his own spiritual beliefs. These influences, combined with Sansanwal’s individualistic vision, have culminated in a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
This book is an immersive journey into the heart of nature through the eyes of a visionary artist. It offers a poignant reminder of the beauty and significance of trees in our lives and invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world around us. His artwork is not just images on canvases, they are windows to a world where the boundaries between man and nature, art and spirituality reveal the timeless truths that lie at the core of our existence.
Arguably, Meditations on Trees is a beautifully crafted book that celebrates the profound wisdom of nature. The heart of this book is Ompal Sansanwal’s deep spiritual connection with nature, reflected in his exquisite artworks and insightful commentary. This timeless treasure resonates with readers of all ages, be it a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or one simply seeking a moment of reflection, making it a must-have for your library.
