| Medium | : | Mixed Media |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | : | Paper |
| Height | : | 14 inch / 35.6 cm |
| Width | : | 10 inch / 25.4 cm |
| Style | : | Figurative Drawings, Figurative Paintings |
| Dimension | : | W: 25.4 cm × H: 35.6 cm |
| Year | : | 1997 |
The face appears fragmented yet clearly defined, with the strong vertical and horizontal lines suggesting an underlying structure or framework, while the rough textures and spontaneous marks introduce a sense of movement and emotional energy. Parekh’s approach moves beyond conventional portraiture, using the human figure as a vehicle for examining inner states, perception and the relationship between order and disorder. The monochromatic palette further emphasises the expressive quality of line, allowing the drawing itself to carry the emotional weight of the composition.
Manu Parekh | Untitled | Mixed Media on Paper | 10 x 14 inches | 1997
This mixed-media work on paper by Manu Parekh, dated 1997, reflects the artist’s distinctive engagement with the human face as a site of psychological and expressive exploration. The profile is constructed through a combination of delicate, searching lines and vigorous, almost architectural strokes, creating a striking tension between the fragility of the drawn contour and the dense, gestural marks surrounding it. The face appears fragmented yet clearly defined, with the strong vertical and horizontal lines suggesting an underlying structure or framework, while the rough textures and spontaneous marks introduce a sense of movement and emotional energy. Parekh’s approach moves beyond conventional portraiture, using the human figure as a vehicle for examining inner states, perception and the relationship between order and disorder. The monochromatic palette further emphasises the expressive quality of line, allowing the drawing itself to carry the emotional weight of the composition. The work is characteristic of Parekh’s modernist visual language, where figuration, abstraction and gestural mark-making come together to create an image that is at once intimate, raw and psychologically charged.
Manu Parekh’s paintings on the infamous Bhagalpur blindings in 1980 reveal his deep response to humanity, in much the same way as Guernica was picasso’s response to the horrors of war.
Born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Manu Parekh studied at Sir J. J. School of Art, Bombay. With influences as varied as Arshile Gorky, Roberto Matta, S. B. Palsikar and Rabindranath Tagore, Parekh has always sought to explore his inner landscape through art.
Perhaps best known for his Banaras series, Parekh’s works are characterised by his intuitive use of colour, bold brushstrokes, and prominent lines. He has experimented with colourful abstractions, sexual imagery, and figuration, responding as much to nature as to daily life and social issues. The women in his works are represented as nature spirits, plant forms, germinating seeds and allegorical figures, recalling mythological traditions.
Stage designer, art designer, actor and artist, Manu Parekh brings diverse perspectives to his work. Craft has been a long-term interest and association with the Weavers’ Service Centre as a consultant designer gave him the opportunity to work with craftsmen. He has travelled widely across India studying the indigenous techniques and styles of folk artists.
Parekh received the President of India’s silver plaque and the All India Fine Arts and Crafts Society’s award in 1972, and the national award of the Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, in 1982. In 1992, he was honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India. His retrospective show at National Gallery of Modern Art also travelled to Mumbai and Bengaluru. He lives and works in New Delhi along with his artist wife, Madhvi Parekh.
If you’d prefer the artwork to arrive ready to hang, please get in touch with us to arrange framing and shipping at applicable charges.
Please note: Customs duties and import taxes may apply at your destination in accordance with your country’s regulations. Refer to our International Shipment document for guidance and support.
| Medium | |
|---|---|
| Surface | |
| Height | |
| Width | |
| Style |
