Earth Song: A solo art exhibition by Sujata Dere

Artist Sujata Dere will present her latest art exhibition, Earth Song, at the Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre, from November 28 to 30. The exhibition brings together her explorations of nature through three distinctive series: the Equus series, studies on the lotus, and representations of forests.

Spanning over three decades, Dere’s artistic journey has evolved from her early pointillist style to a focus on sacred landscapes and spiritual themes. “This series represents a meditative journey that transcends numerous travels,” she said.

The Equus series reflects her personal connection with horses, inspired by her experiences as a rider. Her works depict the horse as a symbol of energy and connection, incorporating maps digitally printed onto the canvas to highlight its historic role in linking cultures. “I love using earthy tones and working with thick and thin lines. Sometimes, I dip my fingers into the paint and apply it directly to the canvas. It’s an organic way to build the energy of the horse,” Dere said. She uses glazed pigments to create a luminous effect that brings a dynamic vitality to her subjects.

The lotus, a symbol of purity and spiritual growth, features prominently in another series. Dere captures the flower’s resilience, blooming in swamps yet representing perfection and resurrection. She explained her technique, saying, “I build layers of acrylic paint, letting them flow and create patterns. The interplay of bold brush strokes and loose lines, combined with the use of aquarelle pencils and palette knives, creates a dynamic energy.” Her compositions range from minimalist depictions to expansive fields of intense blue strokes, evoking the serene essence of nature.

In her forest series, Dere draws from her love of nature and walking through landscapes. The smaller works in this collection are spontaneous yet rich in texture and tone. “I aim to convey the mystique of the forest through layers of texture and light,” she said.

The art exhibition will open with a preview on November 28, at 6:00 PM and will remain open to the public until November 30, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The collection will then be displayed at Dere’s Gurgaon studio from December 1 to 15.

Sujata Dere is a celebrated artist whose career spans over three decades. Her work has transitioned from pointillism to exploring themes of spirituality and nature. Through her use of diverse materials such as acrylics, aquarelle pencils, and digital printing, Dere creates immersive compositions that invite viewers into a meditative space. Earth Song reflects her artistic evolution and offers a profound connection between art, nature, and the human spirit.

When: November 28 to 30; 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Where: Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi