Prayag Shukla: The Artist's Journey of Self-Discovery

In the world of art, there are those whose life stories become as vivid and profound as the works they create. Prayag Shukla, a renowned Hindi poet, fictional writer, art critic, and curator, is one such artist whose journey through life and art has been nothing short of extraordinary. Prayag Shukla's journey as a painter began in parallel with his career as a poet and art critic. His poetry often delves into the complexities of human emotions and the intricacies of the human psyche. It is no surprise, then, that his paintings are imbued with a profound sense of emotion and depth.

His artistic style is both eclectic and deeply rooted in his experiences. Prayag Shukla's paintings often combine elements of abstraction and realism, creating a unique visual language that mirrors the complexities of his poetic verses. His brushstrokes are imbued with a sense of rhythm, much like the meter of his poetry, and his use of color is expressive, adding layers of meaning to his work.

A Bengali Upbringing and a Love for Books:

Prayag Shukla was born in Calcutta in 1940, and his early years were steeped in the rich cultural tapestry of a Bengali "padha" or neighborhood. It was here that he developed an intense connection with nature and a profound affinity for the world of books, thanks to his father's revered bookstore, "Kalicharan and Company." This early exposure to the world of literature and his love for nature laid the foundation for a life devoted to creative expression.

A Serendipitous Meeting with M.F. Husain:

At the age of 23, while working with the Hindi magazine 'Kalpana' in Hyderabad, Prayag Shukla had a serendipitous encounter with the legendary artist M.F. Husain. This meeting proved to be a turning point in his life. Husain's casual observations on light, color, and form left an indelible mark on Shukla and introduced him to the world of art.

Delhi: The Hub of Artistic Inspiration:

In the 1960s, Prayag Shukla made his way to Delhi as a freelance writer. He found himself living in artist Ram Kumar's studio at Gol Market, surrounded by great works of art. This immersion in the heart of the Indian art scene during the '60s and '70s was a transformative period. Evenings were filled with art shows, musical performances, and plays, followed by spirited discussions with artistic luminaries like Jagdish Swaminathan, Ambadas, Himmat Shah, Manjit Bawa, and Jogen Choudhury. This environment nurtured his creative spirit.

From Writer to Curator: Prayag Shukla's Impact on Indian Art

In 1994, under the guidance of his mentor, the legendary M.F. Husain, Prayag Shukla took a significant step in his artistic journey. It was the year he curated his first art show, titled "Drawing 94." Little did he know that this would mark the beginning of a transformative chapter in his life, one that would see him transition from a writer to a curator and leave an indelible mark on the Indian art scene.

The mentorship of M.F. Husain, an iconic figure in Indian art, was a pivotal influence on Prayag Shukla's creative evolution. Under Husain's guidance, Shukla was encouraged to explore new horizons and take on the role of a curator. It was a role that would test his artistic sensibilities, challenge his perceptions, and open doors to a world where the written word would be complemented by the visual language of art.

"Drawing 94" was his maiden foray into curating. The exhibition showcased the works of prominent artists and offered a platform for emerging talents. It was a resounding success, and the positive response from the art community and viewers alike served as validation of Shukla's curatorial prowess.

Over the decades that followed, he curated numerous art shows, each a testament to his discerning eye and commitment to promoting Indian art. His exhibitions ranged from solo showcases of established artists to retrospectives that celebrated the legacies of revered figures in the art world. Beyond curating, he continued to write about artists, art shows, and retrospectives. His writings provided valuable insights into the world of Indian art, offering critical perspectives and historical context. His dual roles as a curator and writer became a bridge between the artist and the audience, enriching the discourse surrounding Indian art. His journey from writer to curator is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and the unending potential for growth in the world of art. His contributions have not only enriched the Indian art scene but have also provided a platform for artists to shine. As a curator and writer, Shukla's legacy endures, shaping the way we perceive and appreciate art in India and beyond.

Turning to Art in Times of Grief

In early 2020, tragedy struck when he lost his younger daughter, Varshita Venkatesh, to cancer. The same year, the world was engulfed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Amidst the grief and isolation, at the age of 80, Shukla turned to a familiar medium – pen and paper. But instead of words, his emotions found expression in lines and colors. Hesitant black strokes gradually transformed into vibrant hues.

A Remarkable Transition: Prayag Shukla the Artist

As the world began to recover from the pandemic, Prayag Shukla, now an artist in his own right, had his first solo exhibition at the prestigious Dhoomimal gallery in New Delhi. His art tells a story of nature's wonders - trees, skies, butterflies, birds, the sun, and the moon. Memories emerge through his suggestive depictions of broken walls, ascending staircases, windows, and pathways. His titles offer a glimpse into the mind of a writer and artist whose senses eagerly await nature's benevolence.

A Life Renewed Through Art:

For Prayag Shukla, the world is his canvas, and his daily ritual revolves around the harmonious dance of painting and writing, often beneath the cool shade of a towering tree. His life, like his art, is a testament to the enduring power of creativity, an ever-flowing stream that finds expression in the vibrant strokes of his brush and the poetic verses that grace his pages.

As an artist and poet, his creative journey is one of perpetual bloom. His love for travel serves as a wellspring of inspiration, nourishing the fertile ground of his ever-active mind. Each new destination, whether it's the bustling streets of Kolkata or the serene landscapes of the countryside, breathes life into his work, infusing it with the colors and rhythms of the world.

His art exudes the confidence of an artist who is not bound by rigid forms but is guided by the boundless energy of his own creative impulse. His paintings are a testament to the joy of spontaneity, where black strokes dance upon the canvas with the playfulness of raindrops on a child's playground. Yet, within those strokes, there is depth and contemplation, much like the architectural masterpieces that stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time.

Even in the darkest hues of his art, there is a profound sense of joy, for nature is a constant muse that pervades and perseveres. It's in the shadows of the trees, the contours of the mountains, and the endless expanse of the sky that Prayag Shukla finds his greatest inspiration. His art captures not only the beauty of the world but also the resilience of the human spirit.

In Prayag Shukla's world, creativity knows no bounds, and the beauty of the world is an eternal muse. In his exploration of the world's profound beauty, Prayag Shukla invites us all to join him on this artistic journey, where every canvas is a new beginning, every poem a new revelation, and every stroke a testament to the boundless creativity of mankind. Through his art, he continues to offer his unique perspective to humanity, reminding us of the enduring power of creativity to inspire, connect, and uplift us all.

 By: Dr. Vikram Kumar