Art that speaks, art that tells a legacy. M. Narayan’s work speaks through movement, galloping hooves, expressive faces, and traditions passed down through generations. His art has evolved over four decades, yet the essence remains unchanged: a deep fascination with life and culture. Curated by Uma Nair, Equus & Other Stories at Bikaner House, brings together this artistic journey, offering a striking collection of works that capture the energy and depth of his subjects.
The Equus Series reflects Narayan’s love for horses and polo. Through bold strokes, dynamic charcoal lines, and vivid colours, he creates a sense of motion so strong that the horses seem to leap off the canvas. There is a raw elegance in these works-an untamed energy that reflects the bond between rider and horse, a connection built on trust, power, and instinct. Narayan’s ability to translate movement onto canvas makes this series particularly compelling.
In contrast, the Kerala Series is rooted in tradition. Drawing from his travels, Narayan captures the dramatic storytelling of Kathakali and Theyyam performers, their painted faces and elaborate costumes brought to life through intricate details.
The intensity in their eyes, the poised gestures, and the rich palette evoke the theatrical magic of these age-old art forms. The compositions feel almost sacred, honouring a culture where performance is devotion, history, and identity.
The Karnataka Series reflects the artist’s deep connection to his home state. Here, rural life unfolds in rich monochrome and colour, celebrating everyday rituals, deities like Kempamma Devi, and the quiet dignity of village traditions. There is stillness in these works, yet they hold the same narrative strength as his other series, proving Narayan’s mastery in balancing movement and emotion.
Narayan spoke of his dual role as an artist, both observer and participant. His words resonated through his paintings, each piece a reflection of his keen eye and lived experiences. Curator Uma Nair aptly described his work as an intersection of movement and stillness, tradition and modernity. The exhibition is an invitation to step into Narayan’s world, where every stroke tells a story, and every figure holds a legacy within.
