| Medium | : | Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | : | Canvas |
| Height | : | 20 inch / 50.8 cm |
| Width | : | 16 inch / 40.6 cm |
| Style | : | Abstract, Abstract paintings, Figurative Paintings |
| Dimension | : | W: 40.6 cm × H: 50.8 cm |
| Year | : | 1998 |
A bold and expressive portrait by Manu Parekh, featuring a solitary face rendered in vibrant layers of oil paint. Through dynamic brushwork, textured surfaces, and a penetrating gaze, the artwork explores themes of identity, emotion, and self-reflection, creating a deeply engaging and thought-provoking visual experience.
Manu Parekh | Untitled | Oil on Canvas | 20 x 16 inches | 1998
This compelling portrait by Manu Parekh is a powerful exploration of human emotion, identity, and inner reflection. Painted in 1998, the work presents a close-up visage rendered through bold, expressive brushstrokes and a rich palette of earthy reds, ochres, yellows, and muted browns. The face dominates the canvas, drawing the viewer into an intense and deeply personal encounter.
Rather than aiming for photographic realism, Parekh uses color and texture to convey psychological depth. The layered application of oil paint creates a sense of movement and raw energy, while the penetrating gaze and fragmented forms suggest a complex inner world. The interplay of light and shadow across the face adds a dramatic quality, inviting contemplation and interpretation.
Characteristic of Manu Parekh’s expressive style, this painting transcends portraiture to become a study of the human condition. The work captures vulnerability, strength, and introspection in equal measure, making it a striking addition to any collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. Its emotional intensity and painterly richness ensure that it leaves a lasting impression on every viewer.
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.
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