Somnath Bothe
Artist Somnath Bothe Statement : Somnath Bothe born in 1982 in Paithan, District - Aurangabad, Maharashtra & working in Pune, Maharashtra as an artist of tremendous talent. He obtained Diploma in Art from Mumbai University (Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalaya, Pune). He has received Gold Medal, Royal Academy, National Level, Gulbarga, Karnataka; Gold Medal, National College Student “Varnika Manav Sanket”, Ujjain & Silver Medal, National College Student “Kalawart Nyas”, Ujjain also. His journey in art field began with landscapes and portraits. He started thinking about sensitivity and intent of the paintings… As his entire childhood was spending in village, a very close relationship with the village. “A deep rooted respect for ‘nature’ and ‘humility’ is the inspiration for my paintings”, says Somnath. Then education and living in city life created new sensitivities and understandings… the blend of these different environments and cultures indirectly flowed in his painting… His paintings are colorful, vibrant, nostalgic at times, and sheer conversational pieces. Subdued and quiet by nature paintings is his language. Somnath has his own way of showing his creations. His color schemes are modern and flashy but this is intentional, to remind us of the importance of historical places. The fusion of rainy season and historical places in cities and villages constitute the subjects of his paintings. Now painting is not just a technique, it has become a medium of expression for him. Somnath Bothe's creations represent a beautiful blend of varied geographies and cultures. The passion for cherishing humanity, love and affection, fusion of village and city life are the subjects of his works and folk human figures find a central place in most of his artworks. Artist Somnath Bothe Statement on “SADHU” series : When I was in Banaras for study on Banaras ghat& history behind, while roaming I have gone through multiple kind of Sadhus on Banaras ghat& surroundings. Colorful attire, different lifestyle & uniqueness of each Sadhu inspired me to continue my Banaras ghat series to Banaras Sadhu paintings. ‘Sadhu’ is a Hindu ascetic, who has let go of all attachments to society in pursuit of "Moksha" or total liberation from ignorance & desires. These ascetics occupy a peculiar position in Indian society. They live a monastic life, dressing in shades of orange, red and saffron, maintaining hair in ‘Jatas’ or dreadlocks etc. They decorate themselves with multiple vibrant colors in their daily routine through clothes, flowers, places & it made me attracted to start new subject. Sadhus seems exceptional than common man due to their long meditation &sadhanas, which creates ‘Aura’ around their face & one can see and feel it for a moment. Keeping in mind the Aura of Sadhus, I have started creating my own textural quality in vibrant colors as a new creation. In my earlier Banaras ghat series paintings, ghat was the heart of painting & Sadhus were diffused. Now I have started exploring Sadhus with their colorful lifestyle in abstraction forms, different textural quality, vibrant colors& foggy effect on beard. While deep diving on ancient Indian culture & holy ghat study, Sadhus took me on different platform of creation. My art seamlessly synchronizes my thoughts, emotions and resonates on the canvas. I rendered it in a bold & vibrant palette. This ongoing journey from Banaras ghat to Sadhu is so peaceful & divine. Thank you, Somnath Bothe
