Meet Artist Ganesh
Ganesh P Doddamani, an abstract painter from Karnataka, India, focuses mainly on figurative forms and Indian heritage. His interest in art started at an early age and grew into his professional passion and artistic career. As an adult, he attended art classes, experimenting with colors. Over the years he has drifted towards abstraction and used a technique to enhance the bright and solid colors on the canvas. Ganesh has an aptitude for creating abstract landscapes, inspired by the palette that nature has to offer.
Ganesh has exhibited in major cities and art centers in India. His repertoire includes awards that reiterate his excellence as an abstract artist, whose presence has grown in the art fraternity. To grow his expertise as an artist, Ganesh attended and graduated with his Bachelor of Fine Arts with honors from the M.M.K College of Art and a Master of Arts from Kala Bhavana, Visva Bharati, a distinguished fine arts university in Shantinketan.
Ganesh’s works have been included in art auctions by Christel House and Entrepreneurs Organization Bengaluru. Since his first solo exhibition in 1996, Ganesh’s paintings have been featured in numerous solo exhibitions and are showcased in national and international collections. Currently, Ganesh lives and works in Bangalore City, where his art practice continues to thrive.
A statement from Ganesh…
From the very beginning of my career as an artist, I have had a great passion towards figurative art and Heritage of India, which helped me realize my spiritual qualities. Over the past few years, my work has naturally and gradually drifted onwards abstraction and distinctive method of compressing the rich color and form of my environment into complex landscape paintings that imbue material reality with a deep sense of place. I combine colors -making techniques with the vernacular, in a bid to arrive at an idiom that is entirely contemporary.
Artist Interview – Ganesh
Step into the vibrant world of abstract art as we present an exclusive interview with an influential artist from India. Discover Ganesh’s inspiration and techniques that shape his mesmerizing creations.
“What was your most challenging piece and why?”
The most challenging piece in my paintings was likely translating the earthy scent of rain into a visual
experience. Capturing the fleeting, emotional essence of petrichor through textures, colors, and forms
required balancing abstraction and realism, evoking nostalgia while staying authentic to nature’s dynamic
beauty.
“How do you align with The Art Spread’s mission?”
I align with The Art Spread’s mission of empathy and awareness by using my art to evoke emotions, spark
conversations, and connect with diverse audiences. My work often reflects themes of nature, culture, and
human experiences, aiming to inspire understanding and shared introspection. I believe art has the power
to create meaningful change by fostering emotional connections and raising awareness of social and
environmental issues, aligning perfectly with their values.
“What are you currently working on?”
Currently, I am working on expanding my Petrichor series, delving deeper into the interplay between
nature’s textures and human emotions. This project explores the sensory experience of rain and its
connection to memory and renewal. Through layered techniques and earthy palettes, I aim to evoke the
serenity and nostalgia associated with the scent of rain on dry earth. It’s an ongoing exploration of how art
can capture intangible, fleeting moments and transform them into lasting visual impressions.
“What message do you convey in your work?”
Through my work, I strive to convey a message of connection—to nature, to memory, and to the shared
human experience. I explore themes of renewal, nostalgia, and resilience, often drawing inspiration from
the beauty of fleeting moments, like the scent of rain in my Petrichor series. My goal is to evoke emotions,
spark reflection, and remind viewers of the profound yet simple joys that bind us all.
“What emotions are expressed in your work?”
My work primarily expresses emotions of nostalgia, serenity, and renewal. It often captures the quiet
beauty of fleeting moments, evoking a sense of longing and connection to nature. At the same time,
there’s an undercurrent of hope and resilience, reflecting the transformative power of these moments.
Through layered textures and earthy tones, I aim to create a meditative space that invites introspection
and emotional connection.
“How much do psychological theories factor into your work?”
Psychological theories play a significant role in my work, particularly in understanding how colors,
textures, and forms evoke emotions and memories. I draw from concepts like color psychology, which
influences mood and perception, and gestalt principles, to guide how viewers interact with and interpret the visual elements of my art. Additionally, themes like nostalgia and renewal are informed by
psychological insights into memory and human resilience, allowing my work to connect deeply with the audience’s inner experiences.
“What are your three go-materials for making art?”
My three go-to materials for making art are:
1. Acrylic and Oil Paints: Versatile and fast-drying, they allow me to layer textures and experiment with
vibrant or earthy palettes, perfect for capturing the moods of my subjects.
2. Textured Canvas: Provides a tactile base to enhance depth and dimension, essential for works like my Petrichor series.
3. Palette Knives: Ideal for creating bold strokes and intricate textures, giving my pieces a dynamic, organic
feel that resonates with my themes.
“Who is your favorite iconic artist?”
One of my favorite iconic artists is Vincent van Gogh. His expressive use of color, texture, and emotional
depth in works like Starry Night and Sunflowers deeply resonates with me. His ability to convey intense
emotions through brushwork and vivid color choices has been a constant source of inspiration in
exploring how art can evoke and communicate human experiences.
“Is making art accessible important to you as an artist?”
Yes, making art accessible is important to me. I believe art should connect with people from all
backgrounds, sparking introspection and unity. By creating pieces that are emotionally resonant and
approachable, I aim to break down barriers and make art a space for healing and connection.
“Who is your biggest fan and supporter?”
My biggest fan and supporter is undoubtedly my family, especially my parents. Their unwavering belief in
my work and their encouragement throughout my artistic journey has been a constant source of
motivation. They’ve always inspired me to push boundaries and stay true to my creative vision.
Additionally, my students and fellow artists provide invaluable support and inspiration, reminding me of
the power of collaboration and shared growth in the art world.
“Is there a word, thought, or feeling that helps you begin your process?”
The word that often helps me begin my process is “renewal.” It encapsulates the feeling I want to evoke
through my art—whether it’s the fresh scent of rain in my Petrichor series or the sense of emotional
growth. This thought inspires me to explore themes of transformation, memory, and connection, setting
the foundation for my creative journey. It encourages me to see each piece as an opportunity to refresh
and reinvent my expression.
“In your studio, do you listen to music or a podcast while you create? Or do you prefer
silence?”
In my studio, I prefer a balance of both. While I often enjoy listening to instrumental music or ambient
soundscapes to help set a focused, calming atmosphere, there are times when complete silence is more conducive to deep concentration. The music serves as a backdrop to creativity, allowing my mind to flow freely, while silence lets me fully immerse in the act of creation without distraction. It really depends on the mood and the stage of the project.
“What do you want the Art Spread community to take away from your work?”
I hope The Art Spread community takes away a sense of connection and reflection from my work. I want
my art to inspire a deeper appreciation for the fleeting moments of beauty in everyday life and evoke
emotions that resonate across experiences. Through my pieces, I aim to encourage viewers to reflect on
nature, memory, and transformation, fostering a shared sense of empathy and understanding.
“How can our audience keep in touch with you?”
Through my social media channels (Facebook), where I share updates on my work, exhibitions, and creative process. They can also reach out via email or phone for inquiries or collaborations.
“How can we support you?”
Every form of support, big or small, contributes to the growth of my artistic journey.
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