Painting his love

The city of Mumbai has been a source of inspiration to many an artist over the years. Imposing British-era buildings constructed in the ostentatious Gothic Revival style,streets that remain busy at all hours of the day,sea ports teeming with activity,a local train system that is the backbone of the city’s transport,and a number of slums —one of which is amongst the largest in Asia — offer an artist a variety of subjects to choose from.

Like the millions of other people who come to Mumbai to chase their dreams,Kolkata-born artist Ananta Mandal moved here three years ago,and was immediately captivated. Referring to his paintings of the constantly evolving commercial area of Lower Parel,he says,“I first lived in Lower Parel when I moved to Mumbai. The street scene was so dynamic,I had to capture it.” Curated by Bina Aziz,a well-known figure in the art world,his exhibition titled ‘Mumbai’ is on view at Nehru Centre Art Gallery till March 28.

All praise for the young artist,Aziz says,“He is brilliant with his watercolours and gives attention to every detail. I first saw his work on Facebook and was impressed right away.” The intricate watercolour picture of Churchgate station,for example,shows the “life and soul of a station that is rich in colours and contrasts”,according to the artist. While the smaller works on display are watercolours on paper,the larger ones are in a combination of mediums,but mostly oil on canvas.