Baba-Bibi Series | Shyamal Mukherjee | 48 x 48 inches painting

Shyamal Mukherjee, an artist deeply rooted in Calcutta, has dedicated his life primarily to his art, with occasional ventures outside the city solely for showcasing his works, and communicating exclusively in Bengali. Born in 1961, Mukherjee spent his entire collegiate journey in Santiniketan, where he obtained his BFA in 1987 followed by his MFA in 1989 from Rabindra Bharati University.
 
In Mukherjee's artistry, we witness a continuation and contemporary interpretation of the Bengal School's strong figurative tradition. He expresses his fondness for solo travels to new locales via buses and trains, stating that "Most of my inspiration comes from observing people."
 
It's unsurprising then, that each figure in his oeuvre carries a distinct and compelling narrative. Mukherjee predominantly portrays performers in his works, individuals who enact roles for societal consumption - a reflection of our everyday existence. Adorned in vibrant hues reminiscent of street performers' attire, his characters' expressions are pensive, their features almost caricature-like, and their hands, chubby, highlighting the irony and pathos surrounding them. For a recent exhibition in Mumbai, Mukherjee chose to depict beggars and street vendors, illustrating their plight in his signature style.
 
Moreover, Mukherjee underscores the shared humanity among individuals, often portraying them in pairs or groups to emphasize their commonalities despite apparent differences in appearance or demeanor.
 
Mukherjee's preferred medium is reverse oil or acrylic painting on transparent acrylic sheets, a technique he remains committed to despite evolving themes and subjects for his exhibitions. Beyond his art, Mukherjee is engaged in various hobbies, including teaching children, from whom he claims to learn significantly, and collecting rural artworks and Bengali artisan crafts.