Attend this art exhibition in Mumbai that showcases unique tributes

Harshad Sonawane painted this artwork inspired by MF Husain’s Five Horses

It was Plato who said: Art is but an imitation of art. You can now dream of taking home a Picasso, MF Husain, Raja Ravi Varma, Leonardo da Vinci, and Claude Monet. Inspired by the Masters, organised by entrepreneur Farokh Messman, brings 50-60 recreations and artistic tributes by Mumbai artists that pay an ode to the legendary works. "We wanted to create a space where art could feel emotionally accessible, welcoming, and available at a very affordable price," says Messman, the former owner of Theobroma bakery with his daughter Kainaz Messman. The show also includes landscapes, wildlife, religious, and contemporary works.

The exhibition allows buyers to own an art piece for five years at a deposit, after which, the organisers will either assist in reselling the artwork at a minimum of double the purchase value or refund the entire original price. This commitment will be supported by a bank guarantee, reflecting the organisers' confidence in the growing appreciation for art-inspired works. The artworks are priced between Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh.

Messman was introduced to museums and art galleries throughout the world early on through travelling. "A blank canvas turns into a priceless piece of art with the skill of the artist, and even becomes a piece of national history for generations to come. I found a great mentor in my friend's father, Jehangir Vazifdar, was one of the greatest artists in India," he says.

A remake by Aditya Salvi inspired by Vitruvian Man by Leonardo da Vinci

Many underprivileged artists came to Vazifar for guidance and advice. "This exhibition gives platform to Indian artists who have no opportunity to showcase their artwork. Look out for Umesh Kale and Harshad Sonawane, whose works include inspirations from Raja Ravi Varma and Leonardo da Vinci, respectively," Messman suggests.

Messman tells us about works he has in his modest collection. One is a painting of a grand old Russian gentleman with a long white beard. "The reason I bought this painting was because my friend told me in my youth that, when you grow old, you will look exactly like him. I am waiting to see if that is true. Another painting I bought from a Bhutanese artist was because he assured me that if I kept the painting over my head where I sleep, I would find peace and serenity in my daily life. It has been there ever since, and I think his words have come true," says Messman.

Oil and acrylic paints on canvas artist Harshad Krishna Sonawane, one of the exhibitors, says, "The Great Masters laid the foundation for many of the artistic principles we continue to follow today. Their understanding of composition, colour, light, emotion, and storytelling continues to inspire artists across generations. Recreating and studying their works allow us to learn from their techniques while introducing these timeless masterpieces to new audiences," says Sonawane, adding that it has also inspired his own style. "Studying the Masters has helped me develop a deeper understanding of colour relationships, brushwork, composition, and artistic expression. Their visual language has broadened my perspective as an artist and developed my creative identity," he says.

Mr Farokh Messman

The exhibition will also showcase original portraits, landscapes, still life studies, religious themes, animal studies and contemporary works.

AT: Kaladalan Gallery inside PL Deshpande Maharashtra Kala Academy, Prabhadevi
WHEN: June 5-11