27 February 2025/

EQUUS & OTHER STORIES BY RENOWNED ARTIST M. NARAYAN: AN ARTISTIC JOURNEY

OPENING ON 1ST MARCH 2025 AT CCA BIKANER HOUSE, NEW DELHI

Prepare to be captivated by the upcoming art show, Equus & Other Stories, featuring the works of the renowned artist M. Narayan. This event, curated by the esteemed art historian and scholar Uma Nair, is set to take place from 1st March to 9th March 2025, at CCA Bikaner House, Pandara Road, New Delhi. The gallery will be open from 11 AM to 7 PM.

A TRIPTYCH OF ARTISTIC MASTERY

Renowned artist M. Narayan’s exhibition is divided into three mesmerizing series, each narrating a unique story through vivid paintings and drawings. The first series, titled Equus, showcases the artist’s profound admiration for horses. Both in color and monochrome, these artworks capture the dynamism and elegance of horses in motion.

The second series, Kerala, is a nostalgic tribute to Narayan’s visit to Kerala, inspired by memories of his travels, thanks to esteemed Shri. Amitabh Kant. These pieces reflect the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region through Narayan’s distinctive artistic lens.

Completing the trio is the Karnataka series, which includes a poignant portrait of Kempamma Devi. This series, rendered in both color and monochrome, delves into the historical and cultural essence of Karnataka, providing viewers with a deep sense of connection to the artist’s roots.

THE ARTISTIC JOURNEY

“M. Narayan originally from Karnataka now living in Pune is an artist who has been painting for the past 40 years. His passion for painting horses at polo matches has created a series of paintings and drawings that are robust and relished and full of the motion of strength, vigour and speed,” says Uma Nair, eminent art historian, scholar and Curator of the show.

“The Polo series is one of Narayan’s prominent body of works which depicts his passion for horses. He portrays galloping horses and polo players in charcoal drawing. Using expressionist strokes, swabs of opaque colours and fierce charcoal lines, Narayan captures the power and speed as though watching a live polo match. With a strong sense for colour and a steady hand in composition, his paintings inspired by the regal sport polo have been a tremendous success,” she added.

Eminent artist M. Narayan’s ability to beautifully depict the rural essence of Karnataka is truly remarkable. This skill, combined with his experience in Kerala, paints a vivid picture of rural life in these regions. His art breathes life into every scene, highlighting the simplicity and vibrancy of daily events and markets.

In the foreword to the exhibition catalogue, esteemed Shri. Amitabh Kant, shared his profound admiration for M. Narayan’s artistry. He wrote, “I’ve had the privilege of knowing Narayan for more than ten years, and my admiration for his work led me to facilitate his journey to Kerala. I believed his keen eye for detail and experimentation with bold color would authentically capture the region’s stunning beauty.”

A BURST OF EMOTION ON CANVAS

“ Narayan’s art bursts with emotion, reflecting a world seen through the lens of someone deeply connected to his roots. His distinctive use of bright colours and dynamic, versatile compositions communicate joy and celebration, breathing life into every canvas. The stories spun throughout his paintings allow visitors to travel over the varied terrain of rural India, dotted with the simplicity of daily events and the vividness of markets,” Shri. Amitabh Kant added.