Stepping into Iconart Gallery, the atmosphere has transitioned to be a lot more calming given the space is known for its more socio-political works. This welcome switch is due to the careful compositions of enchanting artworks by 71 year-old Pankaj Mohan Aggarwal who’s known for his takes on dhyana , an umbrella word for contemplation, reflection and meditation.
Pankaj Mohan Aggarwal at work in Iconart Gallery, Hyderabad
Straight ahead by the benches sits the artist, who does not even notice someone has walked into the space; he’s deeply immersed in the canvas sheet before him, pen in hand. His hand movements seem instinctual and his body language is relaxed — no tension at all!
Finally, looking up, he smiles serenely, sets the work aside and stands up and shakes my hand, eager to show his portfolio. In gentle tones, he points to the right wall of the gallery where three pieces of work created separately are assembled together to create one fluid masterpiece. “This is manthan (churning), maya (illusion) and kalachakra (time-cycles) which come together to create what we perceive as our lifelines,” he explains. He adds that working with mixed mediums is integral in signifying the different layers of life and the various elements thrown our way.
These works encompass dhyana with the typical elements of lotus flowers, Buddha, faces in profile, sunbeams and other energy-focussed allusions.
- Pankaj has been given the epithet ‘monk-artist’ for his dhyana-focussed works
- Born in 1947 in Modinagar, NCR.
- Attended College of Art in Lucknow from 1964 to 1968
Towards the back of the gallery are similar pieces but in black and white with gilded detailing, perhaps offering up a different artistic vernacular and tone altogether. Take note of the chequerboard in all of these; Pankaj says they’re indicative of the way we have to make mindful choices in life. One will notice that Pankaj has placed himself in every painting, be it as a boat or as a tiny bird with Pankaj’s face — and because these are comparatively small, it should remind us just how large the universe really is.
Along with the canvas works, Pankaj has used silver plates with a mosaic of canvas piece upon which to paint and in the centre of the gallery hang two lanterns inside which are little models of meditation and nature constructed cleverly and carefully with canvas pieces.
Be sure to get to know Pankaj through these works if you pop by Iconart Gallery; he’s a treasure trove in India’s art community. The main peg with Pankaj’s works — and this is what countless artists strive for — is that, while his masterpieces are eye-catching, they leave quite a lasting mental and emotional impact on the beholder.
‘Zen’ by Pankaj Mohan Aggarwal is on display at Iconart Gallery until November 21.
