Manu Parekh: A Journey through Form, Colour, and Spirit

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Manu Parekh stands as one of India’s most significant contemporary artists and a modernist painter known for his vibrant and bold artworks. Parekh’s art is characterized by a profound connection to Indian culture, spirituality, and philosophy. His works have become icons of Indian contemporary art, regularly featured in auctions and exhibitions.

At the upcoming Giftex Modern and Contemporary Art Auction, several of Manu Parekh’s exemplary works are expected to take center stage, highlighting his enduring significance in the modern Indian art scene.

Read More About Contemporary Art and its Themes

Early Life and Influences

Parekh’s early life was spent in Gujarat, where he was exposed to a range of artistic traditions that later shaped his style. His formal training began at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, where he developed a solid foundation in painting. Parekh’s early work explored the relationships between man and nature, as according to him, this was an energetic link that had to be celebrated. 

Later he also had a short stint at the National School of Drama. Starting his career in the theatre, he worked as an actor and stage designer for one year and joined Weavers’ Service Centre as an art designer in 1963 where he stayed for two years. He shifted his base to Kolkata in 1965 and, in 1974, moved to New Delhi, joining Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation of India as a Design Consultant. He left the corporation later to pursue his career as a freelance artist.

Having decided to enter modernism via Paul Klee and through the teachings of S.B. Palsikar at the J.J. School of Art, he decided to experiment with creating a modernism that was engaged with India’s vernacular art forms such as rangoli, embroidery etc., which were familiar to him from his childhood in Gujarat

His work has been equally shaped by his personal experiences and travels, especially to the holy city of Banaras, which has been a recurring subject in his oeuvre.

Art Style and Philosophy

Manu Parekh’s paintings are steeped in symbolism, abstraction, and expressionism. One of his most notable themes is his exploration of the human condition through the lens of spirituality. 

Manu Parekh paintings ooze bright hues and shades, forming a somewhat kaleidoscopic universe. He captures the essence of flowers, painting them with the tremendous passion and precision of a master artist in his Flower series. 

His influences range from tribal art and folk traditions to modernism and abstraction. His time spent working with the Weavers’ Service Centre in Kolkata and traveling across rural India has also deepened his understanding of colour, form, and symbolism. His wife, Madhvi Parekh, is also an artist, and together they have contributed significantly to the Indian art scene. 

The Banaras Series: A Sacred Dialogue in Indian Expressionism

Manu Parekh’s Banaras Series holds a special place in the world of Indian Modern Art, marking a deep and personal exploration of faith, death, and spiritual complexity. His connection to the city of Banaras (Varanasi) began in 1980, following the death of his father, which sparked a profound introspection and this led to his first visit to this ancient city. Banaras, the spiritual epicenter of Hindu belief, became a recurring subject in Parekh’s work, symbolizing the intersection of life and death, faith and fear—a dynamic that Parekh identifies as uniquely Indian.

Manu Parekh Paintings Showcased at Giftex Modern and Contemporary Art Auction

Afternoon Prayer

Manu Parekh’s Afternoon Prayer is an evocative depiction of the spiritual energy and architectural charm. The painting’s composition is centered around the domes of temples, painted in dark tones, contrasting with the colourful, vibrant backgrounds of reds, greens, and gold. The colour palette in Afternoon Prayer is striking, with a golden-yellow sky that dominates the upper portion of the canvas. This glowing sky adds a sense of warmth and divinity.

 

Moon Behind the Trees

In Moon Behind Trees, Manu Parekh presents a vibrant and emotionally charged nocturnal scene, characteristic of his unique expressionist style. The painting is dominated by deep shades of blue, creating a mystical atmosphere, likely representing the nighttime scenario. The title Moon Behind Trees suggests the moon as a hidden presence, lending the scene an air of mystery. The moon, often associated with tranquillity and introspection, may not be visible but its impact on the scene is felt, illuminating the landscape in deep blues. 

Manu Parekh’s paintings, along with numerous other works by both established and emerging artists, will be featured at the upcoming Giftex Modern and Contemporary Art Auction. The auction, taking place on the 14th and 15th of October, offers a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire significant pieces that span different artistic styles and generations.

Decorating with Manu Parekh’s Paintings

Parekh’s artworks are not just visual spectacles; they are deeply emotional and spiritual pieces that can transform any space. When incorporating his paintings into your home or office, it’s important to consider the environment they will inhabit, as they demand attention and can set a powerful tone.

• Complementing with Colour

Manu Parekh’s use of intense, vivid colours—deep reds, oranges, blues, and blacks—means that his paintings often become the focal point of a room. To complement this vibrancy, consider choosing neutral tones for the surrounding decor.

2. Creating a Spiritual Ambiance

Given the spiritual nature of much of Parekh’s work, consider creating a meditative space around the paintings. Incorporate soft, diffused lighting to enhance the ethereal quality of his artwork, and use elements like candles, natural stones, or plants to create a calming environment that invites reflection.

3. Framing and Placement

The choice of framing is essential when displaying Manu Parekh’s works. Opt for minimalist frames in neutral colours like black, white, or natural wood, which won’t detract from the power of the painting. The placement of his works also matters.

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Conclusion

Manu Parekh’s art is a testament to the power of visual storytelling. His works transcend mere representation, tapping into the deeper realms of spirituality, philosophy, and the human experience. Whether it’s the haunting ghats of Banaras or the symbolic heads of animals, Parekh’s paintings offer viewers a glimpse into the mysteries of existence. 

Decorate with care, and let his art transform your living space into a sanctuary for contemplation and creativity.

A Diverse Collection of Masters

In addition to Manu Parekh, the Giftex auction will feature works by celebrated artists like Jamini Roy, Laxman Pai, and many more. Whether you are a seasoned art collector or someone looking to make your first significant investment in original art, this auction is a golden opportunity to bring home a masterpiece.