Untitled

14.5x24”

Untitled 

Mix media on paper

About The Artist

Abhishek is a visual artist currently living and working in New Delhi. He was born in a small village in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from the College of Arts and Crafts, Patna, and his Master’s degree from the College of Art, New Delhi.

Born into a lower middle-class family, he observed from an early age how people around him responded to various social and cultural issues over time. During his childhood, he encountered stereotypes based on caste, class, and other factors such as his appearance and clothing. These experiences remained deeply embedded in his memory and later became an integral part of his artistic practice.

Through his work as an Indian folk artist, his aim is to preserve traditions and cultural heritage through the medium of color—an element that has been central to society, culture, and lifestyle for centuries. For him, folk art is not merely a visual expression; it is a living document of people’s beliefs, customs, and everyday narratives. His work is deeply rooted in tradition, yet it also serves as a means to reconnect with cultural roots and keep them alive. In today’s rapidly changing world, he believes it is essential to bring folk art to newer generations, and his work is a humble contribution in that direction.

He seeks to inspire viewers to experience not only the aesthetic beauty of his art but also to engage with the stories and emotions embedded within it. His practice draws inspiration from the rich tradition of Manjusha painting, a distinctive folk art form from the Bhagalpur region of Bihar. This tradition is closely associated with the Bihula-Bishahari narrative, which reflects profound themes of faith, love, struggle, and devotion.

Through his work, he strives to preserve this traditional art form while presenting it within a contemporary framework. Manjusha paintings are known for their bold lines, decorative patterns, and a limited yet vibrant color palette including pink, green, and yellow. He incorporates new themes and ideas into his work while maintaining these traditional elements.

As an artist, he considers himself a custodian of this cultural heritage. He believes that folk art is not only a legacy of the past but also holds equal relevance in the present and future. By preserving and promoting it, he aims to create a meaningful connection between future generations and their cultural roots.

His artistic journey is not solely about creating visually appealing works but also about highlighting the richness, diversity, and depth of Indian folk culture through Manjusha art. He aspires to raise awareness and foster appreciation for this unique art form, continuously striving to learn, evolve, and contribute to its growth.