Yashwant Deshmukh, a contemporary conceptual artist born in 1963 in Akola, Vidarbha, graduated from Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai in 1988. This exhibition showcases his works from 2007 to 2019, reflecting his journey spanning thirty years, oscillating between figuration and symbolic abstraction. Deshmukh’s art emphasizes lyrical and meditative elements, preserving resonance through monochromatic treatment. He personifies minimalism, maximizing its essence. His upbringing in Vidarbha, marked by extreme weather conditions, deeply influenced his perspective, evident in his art’s clarity and simplicity, reflecting his rural roots
The expansive moorlands of Vidarbha, dotted with sporadic Acacia and Neem trees, and simple dwellings merging with the textured landscape, evoke a unique tranquility. Amidst this serene scenery, Deshmukh contemplates life’s insignificance, prompting introspection about mortality and existence. His art embodies this dialogue, reflecting the balance between consciousness and visual expressions, rooted in his direct experiences.
Deshmukh’s artistic evolution traversed various forms before settling into his current style. His experimentation with figuration, abstraction, and still life, influenced by Sir J.J. School of Art’s tradition, eventually led him to reject conventional norms. Drawing from his rural upbringing, he found inspiration in mundane objects like hayricks and grain stores, elevating them into powerful subjects. His paintings capture everyday objects with profound simplicity, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Deshmukh’s artistic language revolves around lines, limited colors, and everyday objects, devoid of external influences like light and shadow. His minimalist approach imbues his art with exclusivity and depth, emphasizing emotional resonance over visual realism. By stripping away distractions, he invites viewers to explore hidden dimensions within his paintings, fostering a deeper connection with his art.
In essence, Deshmukh’s art embodies the essence of minimalism, transcending boundaries to evoke profound emotional responses. Through his unique visual language, he invites viewers to contemplate the simplicity and beauty of everyday life, offering a glimpse into the inner depths of human experience.
