Woman are a principle character in my compositions which refers to the ‘Yakshis’ of ancient Indian sculptures and they are being incorporated in this ‘modern’ world. They are well dressed in contemporary modern outfits and prevailing fashion. Somewhere life and lifestyle determines culture, identity, religion, habits, class etc. The images could also be interpreted as narrations of life in Goa’s old conquests under Portuguese sovereignty for the longest period.  However, because of the manner in which western modernity entered into Goa via “christianisation” and it left impact on ‘life’ of Goa.

I like to portray such things in a very satirical manner and presenting it in a story format, story imagined and presented in a theatrical manner. Somewhere using animal allegory to poke fun at my own culture, to poke fun at my own foibles.

Confluence of mysteries and dichotomies holds a dialogue, its my personal nostalgic journey.  Reality in an arrangement of a personal visual language existentially depicting symbolisms of the alignment of urbanites and to that that of Goan characters, its landscapes etc.

The Language as of “Etching” (printmaking), has been foremost means of expression for me. It involves discipline and precision and the process itself is mysterious and magical.

SHRIPAD GURAV

Note: You can add your own interpretations to my work.