Making art out of architecture is artist Ajay Gulati’s forte. In his ongoing show, Ajay presents a series of art sculptures which are inspired by the Dravidian Architecture (Chola, Pandya, Pallava, Rashtrakutas, Vijanagar empie and the Hoyasalas).
“I have always loved architecture,” says Ajay. His interest in architecture perhaps stemmed from his days as an engineering student where he spent years understanding the physical world around him with observations and perspective drawings. “The engineering course had a subconscious influence on my mind,” he adds. This he used to develop his unique style of art called Sculpture on Canvas.
Born in 1969, Ajay began painting as a child. He however never studied at art schools and instead studied to be an engineer in the field of Electronics. He spent most of his adult years learning about the greatest architectural monuments around the world and grasping the essence of these wonders.
“One of the main features of the Dravidian style of architecture that has fascinated me is that many of the largest structures (pillars, gopuram, etc) are often done on the whole temple which is monolithic (carved out of large single rock),” says Ajay. “And these were made not by architects but by artists.”
Following the same, Ajay uses miniature carving tools on his paintings to add a 3D look which makes them look like sculptures instead. He applies layers of gels and acrylics on canvas and then allows these layers to dry. He then carves out the pillars, staircases and structures until the work achieves a unique 3D effect.
His work is focused on several kinds of architectures from across the world, mainly Egyptian, ancient Indian, gothic, renaissance.
“I believe the function of great design, art and architecture is to bring solace to your mind.” The show that opened in Mumbai will travel to Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, London, Munich, Dubai, among other cities.
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