Shobitha Hariharan Indian Artist Writer

I have chosen ‘realistic Still-Life painting’ as the visual language to narrate stories. The elements in every painting are connected and together they make a story unfold.

Indian women are finding their voice and place in society. They are represented by dolls inspired by the traditional Golu dolls of South India.

The compositions contain one or more sparrows that symbolise the continuation of life as we know it. The sparrows represent you, the viewer and me the story teller too.

The blank spaces within every painting is to allow us to enjoy just 1 thing at a time, telling us to keep life simple.

Come join me in this playful journey of visual stories.

Still.Life.Stories. Music

The Sound of Music - Nothing comes from Nothing

Maturity is understanding that we cannot take credit for all the good in our lives. The Universe helps us.
The song lyrics are the book titles which are placed in an A composition.
The sparrows represents us, the women who have lived life and accept that the many helping hands in our joys and successes. Our actions have played their part in protecting us too.
This painting tells us to be humble and grateful for all we have.
Oil on Canvas
16’ X 20’
2024
https://www.shobitha.in/

The Sound of Music - 16 Going on 17

Every young girl’s growing years is a phase when she feels old enough to choose her path and yet not sure enough of it. So she looks to her elders for guidance.
The books titles mention the memorable lyrics of the song.
There are 7 triangles that make the compositional structure of this painting.
The sparrow represents us, the women who have lived through this phase of life and understand it well.
This painting shows an integral phase of every girl’s life!
Oil on Canvas
24’ X 30’
2024
https://www.shobitha.in/

Music

Still.Life.Stories. Nostalgia

The Family Showcase

A wall decor that showcases the members of a family. There are multiple stories here reflecting each one's interests and tastes.
Acrylic on Canvas
24' X 84'
2020
https://www.shobitha.in/

Nostalgia

Still.Life.Stories. Sculptures

Kanheri

We rushed into a cave for cover during a monsoon visit to Buddhist Kanheri caves in Mumbai. A drenched sparrow flew in and sat at Buddha's feet. Our stories were the same for that moment. It marked a beginning - the sparrow became the storyteller in my pantings. [Displayed at IAADB 2023 at the Red Fort India]
24 X 30
Roasted beach Sand and Acrylic paints on Canvas
2019 [IAADB 2023- Red Fort New Delhi]

Sculptures

Still.Life.Stories. Works on Paper

Master Artists

A still life painting with Michaelangelo's David bust and books on Master Artists to inspire myself and other artsy people.
Water colours on Paper
22' X 15'
2020

On Paper

Still.Life.Stories. Nature

Sparrow and Magnolia

A sparrow enjoys amongst the magnolia flowers.
Acrylic on Canvas
12' X 12'
2023
https://www.shobitha.in/

Nature

Exhibitions

Notable exhibits include:

Indian Art, Architecture and Design Biennale, Sthapatya Pavillion (Temples of India), Red Fort, New Delhi, 2023. - Painting & Installation.
Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai. 2022
World Art Dubai, Dubai
Kala Ghoda Arts Festivals Photography contest Exhibition @ The Terrace Gallery, Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai (Group Exhibit)

Full Exhibition list (30+)

Press & Photo Gallery

Exhibitions

About me

...a contemporary painter and writer from Mumbai India.

Stemming from my interest in all things old, my work leans towards representing aspects that create a dialogue between the then and the now. I look for the similarities and commonalities between the past and the present and create a fresh and new visual to tell new stories.

I see myself as a sparrow whose presence is fleeting and transitory and yet observant and thoughtful. That sparrow is you [the viewer] too.

My current work is inspired by my interest in history, literature,music and poetry

I am Shobitha Hariharan

A bit more about me...

CONTACT

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