Deepak Khandelwal’s artworks are a comment on the pomp and show of the elite world. The artist says that he is amazed to see a dramatic rise of materialism among people. By Karan Bhardwaj
For those growing up in cities like Delhi, Mumbai or Bangaluru, social hangouts and parties make for a daily routine. But for Deepak Khandelwal, who comes from Rajgarh, a small town in Rajasthan, the kisses in air, ultra decked up faces and cocktails in neatly manicured hands did make for an enticing subject for his canvas. His ongoing exhibition Face to Face presents the artist’s take on people smitten by high-end fashion and glamour. Currently held at Shridharani Art Gallery, the exhibition showcases 24 large size paintings in acrylic.
“I never experienced fashion and glamour during childhood. But when I stepped out for studying and work, I was taken aback by how so many people from elite class are celebrating life at these parties,” says the artist.
Khandelwal has tried to expose these varied personas in his paintings. “It appears that people have forgotten the actual purpose of their existence in the roller coaster ride of everyday struggle and the pomp and show of fake world. People try to portray a face which is very different from their real self. And to a great surprise the deception behind each face is to touch upon the meager ends of a futile life. Every section of society has turned materialistic and is running in an endless race to achieve nothing,” he explains.
The artworks show colourful portraits of women with special attention given to features like eyes, lashes, lips and hair. Interestingly, there are figures of opposite sex superimposed on the portraits.
“People peep at each other very sneakily. I have realised a lot of people have the thought of opposite sex in their minds at these parties. So while they are looking at you, they are basically thinking of the person they saw before you,” he explains.The artist’s admiration for colours and motifs is evident but apple prints are perplexing.
“It talks about Adam and Eve. In conscious or subconscious mind, we think of sex and opposite sex. I have used apple motifs to reflect Adam’s desperation. It is energetic and a fresh fruit,” he explains. The motifs replicate the textures from Sanganer region, which is known for its units for textile fabrics.
“The concept is inspired by my own observation and upbringing. People in Rajasthan wear colourful outfits like red, green and yellow. Traditional motifs and paintings on walls and buildings are a general sight. I took one and a half years to complete the paintings,” says Khandelwal, who has lined up his next show at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, by the end of this year.
The award-winning artist held his first group exhibition in 1996. “Since then I have organised several group and solo shows across the globe pondering on subjects like meditation, rumination, soft toys and others,” he shares.
