KALA VARISA

A heritage of artistry

Group Show showcasing works of Dr. Mahendra Kumar Saxena and his grandchildren

Date: 19th to 22nd May 2024
Time: 11am to 6pm
Venue: AIFACS Gallery, 1 Rafi Marg, New Delhi 110001

Art and Culture Organization ‘Empowerment’ presents “Kala Varisa,” a celebration of artistry and heritage, where Dr. Mahendra Kumar Saxena’s timeless creations intertwine with the fresh perspectives of his grandchildren will be held from 19th to 22nd May at AIFACS, Rafi Marg, New Delhi.

The exhibition showcasing the vibrant legacy of Dr. M. K. Saxena and his grandchildren celebrate the artistic endeavors of his family, It is a testament to the enduring influence of art across generations. The unique collection not only highlights individual artistic achievements but also illustrates the enduring legacy and rich tradition of a family deeply rooted in the arts.

It will showcase 15 artworks by Dr. M. K. Saxena demonstrates his versatility. These paintings explore a diverse range of themes and are created using various mediums. His works delve into social dynamics on the lives of a common man along with political and mythological themes. He worked on various mediums for the exhibition, like oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, tempera on paper and watercolour on newspaper. Dr. Saxena has passed down his passion and skill to subsequent generations.

The new generation of artistic legacy is presented by his grandchildren, Siddhartha Saxena (26 years), a product designer and showcasing his 10 Artistic wood crafted art pieces, Kumar Abhimanyu (25 years), graduate from NIFT Mumbai showcasing his four design/textile art works, Kumar Aryan Saxena (20 years), BFA student from DCA will be showcasing his 2 works, Vedica Saxena (23 years) a MBBS student from Georgia is presenting her solo work, Shreya Saxena (18 years) presenting one work along with Grace Amit (13 years) and Kabir Saxena (12 years) both showcasing 1 work each.

About Dr. Mahendra Kumar Saxena (B. 1940)

Rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of Bareilly, Dr. Saxena’s artistic journey began under the loving guidance of his mother, who imparted the traditional folk-art techniques that would lay the foundation for his illustrious career. His artistic prowess flourished further under the mentorship of his elder brother, the esteemed artist Surendra Kumar “Netaji,” who played a pivotal role in shaping his distinctive style.

Throughout his prolific career, Dr. Saxena has delved into a myriad of themes, ranging from poignant social commentaries to spiritual reflections on the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayana. His canvas serves as a powerful medium to evoke introspection and dialogue on pressing societal issues, capturing the essence of human experiences with remarkable depth and sensitivity.

Dr. Saxena’s artistic brilliance has garnered recognition from distinguished leaders and luminaries across India. His portraits, masterfully crafted with precision and emotion, adorn the walls of esteemed figures such as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Jagjivan Ram, Rajnath Singh, and Prime Minister Morarji Desai, among others. Their acceptance of his artworks stands as a testament to the profound impact of his creations.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the realm of art, Dr. Mahendra Kumar Saxena has been the recipient of numerous accolades, including the prestigious President’s Award and honors from the Sahitya Kala Academy. His artistic journey has been marked by a series of captivating exhibitions held across the country, captivating audiences with his evocative portrayal of life’s myriad hues.