Art show explores surrealism through human forms

Inspired by the art of pure imagination, a group show here will provide an account of "Surrealism" as it explores different forms of the human figure.
"Surrealist Humanity", set to begin tomorrow, will showcase paintings that resonate with the idea of renaissance and attempts to find a connection between "spirituality", "knowledge" and "wisdom".
The exhibition will see three women artists bringing together an intriguing collection of art works where human figures, predominantly male, will signify transformation and change in different ways.
Using earthy colour tones, Delhi-based artist Anita Sethi has portrayed male figures along with an uncanny object, making a "surreal" statement.

"I am inspired by dream as well as reality and express them in terms of human anatomy. I use male figures the most because of the beauty of the muscles as it adds lots of volume to the portrait.
"Since I have also been influenced by spiritualism, I always attempt to reflect that aspect in my paintings as well," says Sethi.

In shades of reds and browns, "Guardian" by Sethi signifies "authority" and "power".
The striking "shoe" lying beside the man seeks to establish "humility" and "servitude".
"The faces are mostly hidden in my paintings because I do not like people perceiving the same idea due to facial expressions while looking at the picture. Moreover, I portray human figures with no hair since for me it represents them in a holistic and mysterious manner," says Sethi.

Self-taught painter Shashi Tripathi will showcase the journey from knowledge to wisdom through her art works. The paintings, all in oil on canvas, have been inspired by time.
"The paintings signify the journey from knowledge to wisdom. There is a difference between both of them. We grasp so much information in our day to day life and attain knowledge about several things happening around but it can be turned into wisdom only when it is channelised in the right direction," says Tripathi.
The exhibition will also showcase art works of Deepali Roongta whose love for nature has been reflected through natural forms and in bright colours.

The show is set to continue till March 11 at India Habitat Centre here.