Whispers of Paradox

28 January - 28 February 2024

A solo show by Bhaskar Bordoloi

Bhaskar Bordoloi, born in 1996 in Bongaigaon, Assam, is a visual artist known for his exploration of power dynamics, manipulation, and the human condition. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Painting from Amity University and pursued a Master's degree in Painting from Kala Bhavana, Santiniketan. His art focuses on questioning societal identity through metaphorical landscapes that merge the surreal with the real, prompting introspection and critical reflection. Bhaskar's vivid and intricate compositions contrast the natural world's beauty with the darker aspects of societal structures. He was recently part of the Dotwalk Ajitara Art Residency and his works has been featured in exhibitions such as “Fresh Produce” at Method (Delhi), “Imaginarium 4.0” at Emami Art, “Lament Traces” at Apre Art House, “Out of Turn” at Bikaner House, "Whispers Of Paradox" (Solo, 2024) at MAG Contemporary, "Lost Fragrance Of Infinity" at Space118 (2023), "Landscapes In Flux" at Bikaner House (2023), and "Yuva Sambhava" by Raza Foundation (2022), etc. Bhaskar has also received the Young Artist Scholarship from  the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. He is currently based in Santiniketan, West Bengal, where he continues to develop his artistic practice.

 

Statement

" My practice delves into the intricate dynamics of power, manipulation, and the human condition, questioning our collective identity as a society. By synthesizing the surreal and the real, I create metaphorical and fictional landscapes that invite introspection and critical reflection on who we are and how we interact with one another. Using vivid colors and complex compositions, I highlight the contrast between the beauty of the natural world and the darker undercurrents of societal structures. Central to my work is the examination of authority and its impact on individuals and communities. I explore how those in power can mislead and manipulate, creating illusions of utopias that mask harsh realities. This exploration is often depicted through allegorical imagery, where figures navigate precarious paths and confront deceptive ideals. Themes of judgment and societal norms play a significant role in my practice, uncovering the hidden biases that pervade our communities and portraying how judgments are imposed and beliefs manipulated. My figures often find themselves in states of contemplation or control, reflecting the delicate balance between guidance and domination. Recurring motifs of fragile or solid structures symbolize the precariousness of human endeavors and societal constructs. I try to capture the collective struggles and aspirations towards illuminated ideals while acknowledging the fractured realities that lie beneath. Personal intimacy and societal judgment are additional elements in my works, challenging societal stigmas and urging viewers to reconsider their attitudes towards love and connection. By portraying these tensions, I try to foster a more inclusive perspective on personal relationships.

 

My works often transcend verbal explanation, becoming incomprehensible in their complexity and emotional depth. They are meant to be felt through visual experience, conveying a sensory understanding that words cannot capture. This visual language allows for a deeper connection, enabling viewers to engage with the emotions and ideas presented on a more intuitive level. Because of this incomprehensibility, my works often take on an auto-fictional and absurd quality, blending reality and fiction in a way that challenges conventional narratives. The intricate details, vibrant hues, and symbolic elements in my paintings create an immersive experience that invites viewers to explore their own interpretations and emotional responses, ultimately reflecting on our collective identity as a society."