Dignity of Love

During the 15th and 16th centuries, Love was the prominent theme in the Indian miniature paintings, representing the scenes of the times. Over the years, though there has been no major change in the theme, the imagery has changed in keeping with the contemporary thought. Mitbawkar too allows himself to experiment with this subject.

The name Radha is always associated with Krishna. Their togetherness gives an inspiration to the world. The peacock feather is another meaningful symbol seen prancing proudly on Krishna’s headgear. It indicates both royalty and beauty. It is very delicate, and graceful. The artist uses these elements to indicate the majesty of divine love. In the present-day context of strife, struggle and unrest, the artist uses these symbols to indicate the existence of Krishna.

Similarly, he contextualises other symbols: the Horse indicates dignity and energy. The Bull indicates power and fertility. The Conch creates awareness. The weapons Chakra and Gada, and Padma (lotus) are the signs of Divine Power. One of the canvases depicts the banks of River Yamuna – reminiscent of the Benaras ghats. Another painting titled Dwarkadhish shows reverence for Dwarka – the City of Lord Krishna. In another work of art, he presents mother Yashoda of today`s world with her Krishna in modern clothes. Some of his canvases depict the indirect existence of Krishna along with images of cows and calves.

Mitbawkar’s body of work shows a marked interplay of light and shadow – the chiaroscuro of his feelings – on canvas. Artistic principles merge with skills. In some paintings, he plays with the pointillism kind of technique along with prominent dark lines that make the painting appear like a puzzle. Geometric forms interact and flirt with hues, and a narrative is born.

The artist’s work experience in the fields of advertising, films, and printmaking influence his painting style. This is perhaps the prime reason that he escapes the copying syndrome and forges his own path in a different manner. A slightly probing gaze reveals that all these works relate to the inner and outer worlds. His thoughts and feelings emerge as a rainbow – a dialogue – between the human soul and divine power – underlining the DIGNITY Of LOVE.
– Shriram Khadilkar
– Art critic.