Statement

My work is a reflection of the changing face of our nation, through images of the notable celebrities and public figures, the urban elite and the common man on the street. The acute static demeanor of my portrayals lends itself to movement through the vehicles of vibrant and dynamic colours, the composition of patterns and the gentle Indian spirit reminiscent of centuries past fusing with the invasion of modern advents and amenities. Each depiction is charged with innocuous humor personifying the subtle ironies that permeate daily life, which lay in harmony and yet in conflict with the collision of East and West. My paintings are charged with deceptive simplicity, a mirthful lyricism and a spirit of authenticity. Together, they coalesce to form insightful documentations, a visual timeline of our society through the lens of everyday occurrences, object and people. Around each corner of our cities and villages, we encounter a common and still forgettable site of an overcrowded café, a bustling street, or a flower vendor, yet our deadness of seeing leads us to deplorably disregard the modest and unscathed beauty of our rich culture. Through my images of India’s vast panorama, these paintings provoke a heightened consciousness to challenge the viewer.

Biography

Born 1950, Nayanaa Kanodia grew up in Delhi, graduating from Lady Shri Ram College, in Economics Honours and winning the National Scholarship of the Government of India. An Economist turned painter, Nayanaa is entirely a self-taught artist working in L' art Naif, except for a year's apprenticeship with Anjolie Ela Menon. She has exhibited widely in India and abroad, in solo and group shows, especially in museums and art galleries in London and Paris. In 1998, she was selected by The Commonwealth Institute, to hold a solo show in their newly renovated complex in London. In 2001she was invited by the Victoria and Albert Museum, UK to exhibit her work and to give a demonstration of her technique. She has also conducted several art workshops and participated in camps in various parts on India and overseas. Nayanaa’s work is held in many public and private collections in India and abroad including Museums. She lives in Mumbai.