SURREAL AND SPIRITUAL

Aadhi Vishal is one of the emerging stars on the art firmament. Looking at the trajectory of growth of this young artist, there’s no doubt that he’ll appreciate with every passing day.

Art chamber, Calangute, recently hosted an exhibition of his latest works. On display were paintings done in watercolour on paper and acrylic on canvas. It’s interesting to view his works for the sheer size with which he works.

Wonderland is what Aadhi Vishal constructs for us, mere mortals, using the usual artist’s paraphernalia – paint and brush. Fairy type forms float in the space loosely framed by supporting forms of transmuted figures, lilting and visually enticing decorative designs and such other elements.

Young and raring to go, Aadhi Vishal dares to explore the complexities of life. Wondering into the realm of ‘Maya’ he attempts to grapple with queries that crowd his thinking. The answers flow through the upper limbs, to spill out onto the picture surface, and leave an indelible mark on the viewers’ memory slate. Curious source guides him and Aadhi Vishal acts as a humble medium.

"If Poetry comes not as naturally as the Leaves to a tree it had better not come at all," thus said renowned poet John Keats. Spontaneity is the key in the process of painting for Aadhi Vishal and he refuses to compromise.

He has developed a vocabulary of his own and speaks the language that connects with the heart. Pregnant concepts housed in the deep recesses of his subconscious are delivered with natural ease.

Fascinated with feminine form, he voices the concerns of the fairer gender. Evolving with every other exhibition, beginning with ‘In Search of The Ultimate’ to ‘Self To Selfless’ and the current show, Aadhi Vishal’s paintings are growing more sober and classy. Selective forms, limited symbols and rationed use of hues accentuate the maturity the artist has acquired.

Even though the works fall in the semi-surrealistic genre, the influence of Indian miniature is visible in the meticulous details and the attractive decorations.

His works, as this writer had mentioned a few years earlier, can be called phantasmagoric. Personalised Symbols and hybrid and stylized forms add curious twist to the tale and transform every work into adorable and collectible piece.