Shyama Prasad Dutta stands out as a distinguished artist and art conservator. He honed his craft at Kala Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, where he earned a master’s degree in fine arts. His time at this esteemed institution profoundly shaped his artistic sensibilities and deepened his understanding of Indian modern art and paintings.
Following his studies, he moved to Delhi to join the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) as Curator of Restoration. There, he gained the rare privilege of closely examining and preserving the gallery’s original masterpieces. On multiple occasions, he also served as the collection in-charge, overseeing iconic works by Rabindranath Tagore, Amrita Sher-Gil, and Jamini Roy. These experiences not only sharpened his expertise in restoration and curation but also enriched his appreciation of India’s artistic heritage—a heritage that continues to inspire his own creative and professional endeavours.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World at Lalit Kala Akademi, Shyama Prasad Dutta reflected on the central themes of his work, traced the evolution of his painting style, and offered his insights on contemporary perceptions of artists and their art. He also shared details about the number of paintings featured in his latest exhibition. Here are the key takeaways from this compelling discussion.
Q: Could you elaborate on the central theme behind your artwork?
A: My paintings revolve around nature as its central theme. Through my paintings, I seek to evoke meditative silence, a serene ambience, and a calm, contemplative narrative imbued with love. This is why I often depict fish in a pond, birds, and especially owls, creatures that emerge when the surroundings are tranquil and the atmosphere is cool. In essence, every creation of mine amplifies this quietude, capturing moments of stillness that invite reflection and inner peace.
Q: With your dual experience as a painter and curator, how would you describe the evolution of painting and the broader art scene in recent years?
A: In the early stages of their careers, senior artists faced far greater struggles than today’s practitioners. I believe that contemporary artists are largely shaped by what they see on the internet, drawing inspiration from one another. However, a deeper, disciplined study of art and painting is often missing. My extensive experience as both an artist and a curator has given me a perspective and skill set that strengthens my own practice.
Today, many works focus on isolated figures rather than fully realized compositions. In contrast, masters like Jamini Roy and Amrita Sher-Gil created drawings that conveyed complete artistic thought—every line, form, and gesture deliberate and whole. Even Jatin Das exemplifies this sense of completeness in his drawings. Unfortunately, this depth and rigor are often absent in contemporary painting. I feel this lack keenly and consider it a crucial aspect for artists to reclaim.
Q: How do you think society currently perceives paintings and painters?
A: Society engages with art and culture, yet acceptance of an artist often depends on external validation. If an established patron or promoter endorses an artist, society readily embraces their work. Without such support, however, it becomes extremely difficult for an artist to gain recognition on their own. Unfortunately, this remains a bitter truth: without backing from influential figures, even the most compelling paintings may go unnoticed.
Q: How many pieces are you showcasing in this exhibition?
A: I am exhibiting around forty paintings in this collection, all created using temporary mediums on paper. The overarching theme revolves around love and serenity. Fish, owls, and the surrounding atmosphere evoke a profound sense of calm and coolness. These elements form the core of my artistic focus, allowing me to explore tranquillity and gentle contemplation in every work.
