Whispers Between Worlds is a quiet exploration of the unseen

Three contemporary artists — Anjali Rajkumar, Mohit Naik and Narayan Lakshman — will be exhibiting their work in Bengaluru. Though each artist has a different style and tone, they share a common vision, says Ritikaa Sadhwani, director at iArt, who curated the show.

“Whispers Between Worlds is an interesting visual journey with each artist displaying their unique techniques. The similarities in their outlook was the central reason we decided to show three artists together. This was also the first time the three of them were exhibiting in this format in Bengaluru, making it a new offering for art lovers in the city.” says Ritikaa.

She adds, “Historically, art is associated with being unattainable and at times, viewers can feel intimidated by some spaces. We hope to make first-time visitors and buyers feel at ease at the gallery.”

Delving into each of their works, Ritikaa says artist Mohit Naik uses a colour palette that is soothing and is known for his scenes of village life and rural women at work. “Mohit had an early exposure to art, surrounded by the works of his father, artist Mohan Naik, and began painting from a young age. Much like his father, his work too, is a reflection of pastoral life in Goa though he has developed his own style,” she says.

Anjali Rajkumar’s works are whimsical with a touch of science and spirituality, interpreting mythology in her own way, says Ritikaa. “Unlike most artists who leave their work open to interpretation, Anjali’s art comes with a narrative that guides viewers into understanding what they are looking at.”

“Each of her works are distinctive, and one can see evidence of physics in her canvases.”

Ritikaa says Narayan who has had no formal art education, started painting as “a pure exercise in philanthropy”, drawn to it during the pandemic. “He started it as a hobby, and was able to raise funds for various projects at the time, which boosted his confidence.”

“A lot of his works are a reflection of his travels and are also inspired by his favourite masters. Some of his works have abstract symbols; some see these as infinity, others as boats on the horizon.”

From the artists

“My works are influenced by artists such as VS Gaitonde, Laxman Shresta and Gerhard Richter. These are abstract expressionists who defined the genre, within India and on the global stage,” says Chennai-based Narayan Lakshman.

“My work speaks to a similar Zen influence where the idea is that anyone looking at them feels a sense of stillness, quietude and calm. I hope it fosters a feeling of peace as the viewer finds a connection within themselves,” he adds.

Narayan says his works are not monochromatic, “but are of single or dual-tone palettes,” with a use of texture and calligraphic-like markings. “While the canvas itself is representative of the mind or the soul, the small marks and textual notes within it are focal points for meditation, metaphorically speaking.”

Meditation is a large part of Anjali Rajkumar’s works as well. The artist says she took up painting in 2012, around the time she began meditation seriously. “This is the reason I sign my works as Ashwatha,” she says, referring to the passage in The Bhagvad Gita where Lord Krishna states, “Among trees I am Ashwatha.”

She shares how while reading The Bhagvad Gita she came across a Peepal (Ashwatha) leaf in her room and tucked it into its pages. “That was quite surprising as there are no Peepal trees nearby. I created my first painting soon after; only later did I realise that the leaf opened to the above-mentioned passage,” says Anjali.

The Chennai-based artist who uses acrylic and oil on canvas says her background in neuroscience and love for the subject is evident in her works as well as her belief that happiness is a choice that has to be made each day.

Mohit Naik who hails from Ghodkem, a small village in Goa, says his works reflect the untouched treasure that is his birthplace. “I was born and brought up in this same village and all my works are inspired by my surroundings,” says Mohit.

He adds, “Most visitors look at Goa as a party or beach destination. Many don’t know the true treasure of Goa is its villages and local life; very few people have explored this facet. Through my paintings, I want to show viewers the rural life, culture and traditions followed in Goa.”

The artist who uses watercolours, oils and acrylics, says he has also been inspired by the works of his father, artist Mohan Naik.

Whispers Between Worlds will open at iArt Gallery on September 12 and continue till October 15, 2025. Entry free, Sundays closed.