“No great artist ever sees things as they really are. If he did, he would cease to be an artist.”
– Oscar Wilde
Delving into the depths of human imagination, globally acknowledged Veteran Visual Artist Ashok Kumar’s artistic journey transcends borders and being symbolic, weaving together threads of inspiration from France to New Delhi, India. With inheritance of vibrant landscapes of Bihar, Kumar’s artistic odyssey has reached from Patna to the whole world crossing borders being inspirational for neophyte artists.
Fuelled by a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, Kumar embarked on a transformative voyage of learning, securing a coveted scholarship for advanced studies in fine art at “L’Ecole Superieure des Beaux-arts de Marseille, France”. His dedication and talent were further recognized with a prestigious senior fellowship in painting from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India is a testament to his enduring commitment to his craft.
Kumar’s artistic repertoire is a kaleidoscope of imagery, a symphony of symbols and signs that speak to the human experience and our intrinsic connection to nature. Through his mesmerizing creations, he invites viewers into a realm of heightened consciousness and spirituality, where semi-figurative forms intertwine harmoniously with the organic world, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. A true global citizen of the art world, Kumar’s work has traversed continents, leaving an indelible mark on audiences from France to Peru, from China to Chile, and beyond. His participation in major national and international workshops, festivals, art residencies, and exhibitions has earned him acclaim and admiration worldwide. Notably, his art has graced the prestigious ARTSY PAGE by ACS Gallery, Chicago, USA, captivating audiences with its profound beauty and depth.
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, Kumar remains steadfast in his commitment to uplifting the cultural heritage of India while embracing the universal language of creativity. His presence in numerous international art exhibitions underscores his unwavering dedication to sharing his vision with the world. His 800 art works are in the collections of many museums in Europe, in Galleries in UK, Russia, Europe and India and with many private collectors.
Recently Ashok Kumar organized the 7th solo art exhibition, “Vibrant Exploration” at RPR Gallery, New Delhi. It’s opening was graced and attended by key personalities. Hon. Mr. Anil Kumar, Senior Secretary, Lok Sabha Secretariat Government of India, did the Lamp Lightening. Mr. Ram Prawesh Paul served as the Curator for the wonderful art exhibit. Visitors and art enthusiasts relished Kumar’s eclectic masterpieces, which were displayed for the public viewing. Some selected drawings of the talented and gifted Visual Artists were also included in this exhibition to showcase and promote their art. Truly stunning art pieces with the artist’s signature style and mixture of vibrant colours in the four corners of the gallery created magnificent aura. Ashok Kumar’s artworks have already featured in many local and international art exhibitions and magazines and widely appreciated by art lovers.
Mr. Paul, the curator called the event of Ashok Kumar an ostentatious event. He believed, “If the painters after the Patna Kalam (pen) will be counted in the future, then there will be a name of Ashok Kumar, New Delhi, India.” He further adds- “A country’s national or regional style never dies but it transforms. The Mughal style converted by the British was known as ‘Patna Kalam’. The British gave premier to the pictures of common people instead of Darbari pictures. Now this is being re-transformed reaching global platform. Painters here are moving towards broadness and not bound to a particular subject, which can be seen in Ashok Kumar’s paintings. The pictures openly show satire, socialism and human connection towards other creatures. The colors in paintings do not fade away from the stellar gaze; the rainbow weaves the web of bells. Visit to the exhibition for me was a soul-satiating and eye-soothing experience.”
Patna Kalam art, originated in the city of Patna, Bihar in India is a unique and traditional art form that involves the use of natural colors and intricate brushwork to create beautiful and vibrant paintings. The art form primarily features themes of nature, religion, and culture, showcasing the rich heritage of the region. Patna Kalam artists are known for their attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship, creating captivating pieces that reflect the essence of Bihar. The art form has been passed down through generations, preserving the cultural heritage of the city. Patna Kalam art is not only a visual delight but also serves as a medium to convey stories and traditions, making it an integral part of the artistic landscape of Bihar.
It is appreciable that contemporary artists like Mr. Kumar serve the purpose of acting as a guardian of cultural heritage through their artworks and exhibitions. In this rapidly evolving world, where modernity often overshadows tradition, art preservation is a much-needed step. Such exhibitions serve as custodians of our history, showcasing the richness and diversity of human civilization. The protection and preservation of cultural artifacts become crucial, as they represent the collective identity and unique contributions of a nation or community.
In an exclusive talk, Mr. Kumar tells, “My creation explores new vision through the imagination of the human being as an origin belongs to our cultural diversity with many symbols and signs. What we indulge or experience in the surrounding nature with positive vibes and thoughts are usually creating ecstasy in our mind and radiates peace with togetherness. I depict aesthetically the semi-figurative human form with the relevant combination of nature and other organisms in my creation to explore the high consciousness and spirituality.”
About nature, he expresses- “We may see that many of our conflicts and problems in life are the result of being out of alignment with nature. We must respect the planetary ecosystem on which our survival as a human being depends. Alignment with nature brings peace and harmony with in and the world around us. Once we accept the fact that we are part of nature, we can see that for us to function optimally on this planet, we must understand its laws and act by the cosmos. We can find beauty everywhere by loving nature truly.”
Kumar firmly believes that by nurturing the arts and our inherent connection to nature, by providing platforms for boundless artistic expression, we actively contribute to the cultivation of a sustainable global society that values and respects the artistic contributions of all nations and peoples.
Elizabeth Castillo Esguerra, an Artist from Philippines says, “Art, in its richest and purest form, is a medium that goes beyond language, ethnicity, and geography, touching the depths of human emotions and offering a glimpse into the diverse beauty of our shared existence. The transformative power of art is undeniable; it has the potential to liquefy borders, reserve cultural heritage, and nurture unity among civilization. Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire and motivate.”
Thus, we wholeheartedly urge you to embark upon a transformative journey of enlightenment and introspection, suspended in the ethereal beauty and transformative power of Ashok Kumar’s impeccable art. It is in the confines of his masterpieces that boundaries dissolve, and the mercurial essence of our shared humanity illuminates the path towards a harmonious existence!
(Dr. Shalini Yadav is a Professor, Writer and Columnist from Jaipur, Rajasthan.)
