While most artists want to be recognised by their distinct style, Satish Gujral has no such qualms
While most artists want to be recognised by their distinct style, Satish Gujral has no such qualms. With change being his life's mantra, he ensures that his body of work is never the same. His latest exhibition Tryst with Modernity and Tradition is far more restrained than his previous works, but just as powerful. 
WHO: Satish Gujral
WHAT: On experimenting with art
WHERE: Jehangir Art Gallery
Having wowed art lovers and critics at the Jehangir Art Gallery recently, it will be on display at the Cymroza Art Gallery from Feb 24 to March 31. CS gets the dynamic artist talking about his latest work and why he embraces change:
For god's sake
Of late I've been noting the changes taking place around us. Indians have this remarkable quality of absorbing new trends, cultures and innovations. But, while we're receptive to the dynamism around us, we still haven't forgotten our roots. That's exactly what I have tried to show in my ongoing series. An electrician might be working on a generator, but you'll find an idol close to him. I was in Mumbai two years ago when I noticed a fisherman sitting with his tools, with a statuette of a God next to him. That scene became the inspiration for this series, and you will actually find three paintings based on that fisherman. But the religiosity that I have brought into focus in my art is purely observational.u00a0
Change over
Adopting a new style is a challenge that I enjoy taking up. Normally artists are afraid to experiment with something new because they're identified with their work. I don't have any such fears. I find a new identity in every series that I work on and I respect those artists who showcase change with the changing times. Once Picasso was asked what he thought of Joan Miro's work. He said, 'When Miro comes out of his nappies, I'll talk about him.' He'd been doing the same work for 50 years. I don't like sitting with my nappies on.u00a0
New beginnings
Change is the key to our existence, which is why I continue to dabble in various things that give me fulfilment. I've been an architect, a writer, an interior designer, a graphic designer, but I've enjoyed pursuing all these vocations. It is only when I feel that I have reached the plateau, do I move on to something else. I kissed architecture goodbye after completing 10 buildings. I am glad that we live in a world that offers us so many options. It would be a very dull place if we didn't embrace the changes that come with living in a global village.
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