Shashikant Dhotre
Sholapur, Maharashtra, India | 1982
Shashikant Dhotre’s artworks of colour pencils and dry pastels is distinctive. A self-taught artist, Shashikant engraves life-like images of rural women and their ‘day in a life’ on canvas. His photorealistic protrayal is led by intricate details and a beautiful play of light that set the mood for vivid colours of the traditional Indian fabrics and the sombre backdrop of a rural village setting.
Born to a mason father, Shashikant has worked his way through art. After dropping out of college for lack of education funds, Sashikant took to art with humble materials like a pencil and paper. And, today he has made this his signature style.
Your practice is inspired by ...
Keeping it real and simple. I protray the life and lifestyles of rural women – a piece from my childhood memories. This artwork comes naturally to me. I belong to this setting – the rural hinterland and its life. A lot my work is based on observation and I try to capture the minutest details like the folds of the sari, the hair, skin texture, smiles and even the melancholy on their faces.
Your take on life ...
I had to drop out of college due to financial constraints. But, something kept pushing me to go beyond my restrictions. It would have been great to get a formal art education, but life has been a great teacher, too. I have met so many people along the way, who have taught me ways to go beyond traditional methods and explore further.
A word on art ...
Art is what we see around you. And, all you need to appreciate art is look around - it’s simple!
Achievements
2017 - Raja Ravi Varma Chitrakar Samman
2016 - Maharashtrian of the Year Award
2015 - Kohinoor of Maharashtra Award
2013 - State Art Exhibition Award
2011 - India Art Festival Award
2009 - Bombay Arts Society Award
