The year begins with a spectrum of colours in a series of art works inspired by water and earth elements, artist Sonaali Durga Chaudhri presents her solo exhibition called Pravah. The show is presented by Gallery Massarrat by Bruno Art Group, the exhibition was inaugurated on January 18th and continues till the 2nd of February 2025. Luminaries who attended the opening included eminent artists, curators and gallerists such as Sushma Behl, Kanchan Chander, Vinod Bhardwaj, Uday Jain, Vijender Sharma, Manisha Gawade, Gagan Vij, Shridar Aiyer amongst others.
The artist explains, “using vibrant acrylics on canvas, wood and MDF, I create abstract works with representational elements that capture the essence of nature’s majesty, from the serene flow of rivers like the Ganga to the majestic grandeur of mountains like the Himalayas. My artistic journey is a quest to distill the sublime beauty of the natural world into emotive, soul stirring pieces. My art captures the raw power of the elements, with water as the central force. The flowing colours and textures represent life’s challenges, while the calm yet strong currents symbolize resilience. River rocks, smoothed by water over time, speak of the beauty that emerges from struggle.
Sonaali further elaborates, “each piece reflects water as both a source of strength and a metaphor for overcoming obstacles, showing how it shapes and transforms, leaving behind something strong and beautiful. Something I have myself experienced as a woman sailing her own ship in this world. Inspired by the ever-changing landscapes and the eternal rhythms of nature, I aim to evoke a sense of bliss and tranquility in those who experience my art. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, I hope my creations offer a refuge of serenity and beauty, inviting viewers to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the beauty that surrounds us and realise that protecting nature is our responsibility. With each brushstroke and dab of the spatula, I seek to convey the harmony, balance and resilience that can be found in the natural world and within ourselves. May my art be a reminder that, no matter what life brings, we can always find peace and solace in the majesty of creation. I hope that my art will truly contribute to creating a better and more positive world for all. The current exhibition is a result of my explorations in the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas and the upper Gangetic belt. I am passionate about protecting nature as it is meant to be. The ravages wrought by climate change are a wake up call for mankind.” And she wonders if the world is listening?
Ms. Nidhi Gupta, co-founder of Gallery Massarrat by Bruno Art Group says, “We are very excited to present Sonaali Durga Chaudhri’s work at our Gallery Massarat. Her works depicting Himalayas and mountain rivers are very calming and make you aware of one’s spiritual self. There is a serenity in her works that can only be understood when you experience it.”
Renowned art critic, Vinod Bharwaj’s shares his thoughts, “Over the last two years Sonaali has managed to discover the miraculous relationship between stones and water through her canvases. With the use of acrylic colours on her canvas she uses its texture beautifully and manages to discover a range of magical permutations and combinations of stones and water.”