The ideas of peace, harmony and spirituality fuel Ram Kishore Yadav's thought process, which finds a unique expression through his art. The senior artist is dutifully pursuing the theme of devotion in his current exhibition at Lalit Kala Akademi, as he did in the solo held at the same venue in 2007.
Tranquil faces, lush greens forming the backdrop, elements of yoga and animals appear on the 20 acrylic-laden pieces done by Yadav, who has to his credit 70 solo shows and more than 100 group expositions. Spirituality was always part of his oeuvre but, he says, it was only in the later years that the subject became more pronounced. “In later years of life, it is natural to lean towards spirituality. But it is also about the state of mind and the environment you are in,” says Yadav, who in his earlier years had worked on the themes of suffering.
The flattened surfaces mostly bear serene faces rendered in warm tones. The works carry the influence of folk art traditions but they aren't devoid of artistic liberties. The figures are depicted as enlightened, awakened and tolerant radiating energy and positivity. Yadav notes in his catalogue, “…. My imagery is both positive and constructive, more than real and more than just pleasing pictures. It takes a totalitarian view of life and appeals both to our mind and as well as to heart. This in my opinion is a positive achievement of my current effort. It is the sum and substance of my personal philosophy which is centred around ‘ananda'.
(The show is on at Lalit Kala Akademi till Sept 28)
