Amitava Dhar, born in Kolkata in 1957, has been a significant figure in contemporary Indian art, particularly known for his contributions to abstract art. After graduating from the prestigious Government College of Arts and Crafts in Kolkata, Dhar embarked on a journey to explore the complexities of post-modern life through his art. His works often delve into the fragmentation and disorder of modern existence, presenting a unique perspective on the chaos of contemporary society. The use of broken, reassembled imagery in his paintings is a signature of his style, where colors and forms are manipulated to evoke both cognitive and emotional responses from viewers.
Dhar's thematic explorations go beyond the surface of abstraction, offering commentary on societal issues while maintaining a sense of mystery and depth. His vibrant use of colors, combined with fragmented forms, invites the viewer to interpret the work through personal lenses, often challenging conventional modes of perception. In essence, his works blur the line between abstraction and reality, offering a dynamic visual experience.
Throughout his career, Amitava Dhar has participated in numerous high-profile exhibitions both in India and internationally. Notable among these are his shows at the *Bhopal Biennial* in 1996, the Lalit Kala Akademi National Exposition in 1998, and the International Triennial in New Delhi in 2001. His international presence has been highlighted through exhibitions at The Gallery in London (2006, 2007) and Tamarind Art Gallery in New York. Additionally, Dhar has exhibited multiple times with Aakriti Art Gallery, where his contributions to abstract art have been widely appreciated.
In terms of accolades, Dhar's work was recognized with the Birla Academy Award in 1995, a testament to his influential role in the Indian art world. His pieces are part of esteemed collections, such as the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi and the Science Museum in Bangalore, as well as several private collections in India and abroad.
Dhar's artistic philosophy revolves around addressing the "unseen," as he seeks to reveal deeper truths through abstraction. His works, rich in both form and content, continuously push the boundaries of what abstraction can represent in terms of human experience and emotional resonance.
Education :
Graduated from the Government College of Arts and Crafts, Kolkata, India (1975-1980).
Major Exhibitions:
Bhupal Biennial, 1996
Lalit Kala Akademi National Exposition, New Delhi, 1998
International Triennial, New Delhi, 2001
The Gallery London, 2006 & 2007
Tamarind Art Gallery, New York, 2006
Aakriti Art Gallery, Kolkata
Awards:
Birla Academy Award in the year 1995.
Collections: National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi; Science Museum, Bangalore. Various public and private collection in India and abroad.