Sculpture
Sculpture is a branch of the visual arts focused on creating three-dimensional works that exist in height, width, and depth. It is one of the plastic art form involving the shaping of materials into objects, figures, or abstract forms.
Over time, sculpture has evolved to reflect varying cultural, societal, and technological contexts. Traditionally, sculptors used methods like carving (removing material) and modeling (adding material, such as with clay) with materials like stone, metal, ceramics, and wood. However, since the advent of Modernism, sculptors have had the freedom to use a broad range of materials and techniques, including carving, welding, assembling, molding, and casting.
Indian sculpture, in particular, is known for its rich tradition and variety in forms and materials.
Types of Sculptures
Freestanding Sculptures
These sculptures, viewable from all sides and unattached to any background, include intricately carved statues of Hindu deities in Indian temples. They depict gods and goddesses in dynamic poses, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and devotion of the artisans, and are integral to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Relief Sculptures
Attached to a background, these include bas-relief and high relief carvings. Exemplified by the walls of the Ellora and Ajanta caves, these carvings narrate stories from Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions. They provide depth and texture, bringing mythological tales to life with intricate details and expressive forms.
Kinetic Sculptures
These involve movement, rare in traditional Indian sculpture but seen in contemporary art. Modern Indian artists create kinetic sculptures with mechanical components or natural forces like wind or water, adding a dynamic dimension to the visual experience. These pieces engage viewers interactively, reflecting technological advancements and creativity.
Environmental and Site-Specific Sculptures
Integrated with their surroundings, these sculptures are often found in public spaces and monuments across India. They create a harmonious blend of art and nature, enhancing cultural and aesthetic value. These installations reflect the local context, history, and community, making them deeply resonant with their locations.
Assemblage and Found Object Sculptures
Using everyday items, these sculptures are prevalent in contemporary Indian art. Artists experiment with mixed materials to create innovative and thought-provoking pieces, reflecting social and environmental themes. The use of discarded objects reimagined as art addresses sustainability and creative resourcefulness in modern artistic practices.
Indian sculptors work with various materials, including:
1. Stone (durable and intricately carved), as exemplified by the detailed carvings in temples like those at Khajuraho and Hampi.
2. Metal (strong and malleable), used in temple idols and sculptures, including the famous bronze statues of Nataraja (Shiva) from South India.
3. Wood (versatile and traditional), used in temple architecture and carvings, such as the wooden pillars and deities in traditional Indian temples.
4. Clay (pliable and fired), used in terracotta sculptures found in ancient sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.
5. Plaster (moldable and used for models), commonly used in traditional Indian art studios for creating preliminary models.
6. Glass (translucent and delicate), used in contemporary Indian art installations.
7. Plastic and Synthetic Materials (innovative and lightweight), seen in modern Indian art practices that push traditional boundaries.
8.Mixed Media (combining different materials) for diverse textures, as used by contemporary Indian artists exploring new artistic expressions.
Raghunath Mohapatra is a renowned Indian sculptor celebrated for his exceptional ability to merge traditional Indian sculptural techniques with contemporary sensibilities. His work represents a significant contribution to the field of sculpture, reflecting both a deep respect for historical forms and a forward-looking approach to artistic innovation.
Mahopatra’s art is profoundly rooted in the classical sculpture tradition of Odisha, a region known for its rich heritage of intricate temple carvings and detailed iconography. His sculptures often draw inspiration from the architectural and artistic styles of ancient temples such as those at Konark and Jagannath Puri. These temples are renowned for their elaborate depictions of Hindu deities and mythological scenes, and Mohapatra’s work faithfully mirrors these classical styles with its own unique flair. His dedication to preserving the traditional Orissan sculpture tradition is evident in the meticulous detailing and reverence for religious themes that characterize his sculptures.
In addition to his commitment to classical techniques, Mohapatra has also embraced modernity, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and evolve traditional methods to explore contemporary themes and forms. This fusion of old and new is evident in his innovative use of various materials beyond the traditional stone. Mohapatra has experimented with bronze and mixed media, pushing the boundaries of classical sculpture while incorporating modern artistic practices. This approach allows him to create works that bridge the historical and the contemporary, making his art both timeless and relevant to current artistic trends.
RAGHUNATH MOHAPATRA
Sculptor Raghunath Mohapatra receiving The Padma Vibhushan award from the Hon’ble President of India Shree Pranab Mukherjee.
Over the decades, Raghunath Mohapatra has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shree in 1975 and the Padma Bhushan in 2001, culminating in the Padma Vibhushan in 2013. His legacy is a testament to his dedication to the art of sculpture, and his works are considered treasures, valued for their beauty and craftsmanship. He also received the National Award for Sculpture from the Lalit Kala Akademi and was appointed as a Fellow of the Lalit Kala Akademi, recognizing his exceptional influence and mastery in the field. His accolades highlight his significant impact on both traditional and contemporary Indian sculpture.
Galleria VSB is proud to house a collection of exquisite sculptures by Raghunath Mohapatra. Each piece in this collection is a testament to his unparalleled skill and artistic vision, making them treasures worth possessing and passing down through generations. Mohapatra’s connection with Galleria VSB underscores the gallery’s commitment to showcasing the finest in Indian art, and his sculptures remain a highlight of their collection, admired by art lovers and collectors alike.
RASLILA OF KRISHNA
1’5” X 1’ X 6” inches
Green Zed Stone
LORD GANESHA
1’ X 7” X 3” inches
Green Zed Stone
LORD GANESHA ON VEHICLE (MOOSHAK)
4’6” X 2’8” X 1’6” inches
Green Zed Stone
LORD VENKATESHWARA
2’7” X 1’7”X 8 ” inches
Wood