Painting is like a MIRROR

Renowned artist Shibu Natesan's paintings are not dominated by subject matter. It's all about the art of painting, about illusion: the 'retinal pleasure.'

In a mesmerizing display of artistic brilliance, Shibu Natesan recently unveiled his solo exhibition "Retinal Pleasure" at The Guild Art Gallery in Mumbai. His masterpieces transcend borders, encompassing a diverse range of genres, from enchanting landscapes to captivating still life and even rare glimpses into his own being through self-portraits. As an artist, Natesan opens a window to a world rarely seen, offering a profound insight into his creative journey.

Each stroke of his brush pays homage to those who have attempted to enfold the universe into their works, reflecting the perpetual value of creative expression. ART SOUL LIFE in a free-wheeling interview with Shibu Natesan unravels the narrative that underlies his awe-inspiring creations.

Who has been the source of inspiration in your early childhood days whose proximity compelled you to take up the less-traversed path of art? 

My early childhood inspiration was my father. My father was also a painter and went to the art school in Trivandrum. He used to run an advertising firm and many people used to work for him, making hoardings, cut-outs and portrait paintings. One day, I met a man from Tamil Nadu, he was working for my father. I remember, he was a hippie. Once, he painted a huge painting of Kamal Haasan, Bruce Lee and a few other film stars from Bollywood and Malayalam movies. It was amazing that he had actually painted such realistic, beautiful portraits overnight. Of course, he copied from photographs and I think they were meant for a barbershop. But I was really impressed by those works.

My father sent me to art school since he wanted me to study applied art for advertisement so I could probably lead his organization after him. But I secretly joined the painting department because I was clear that I wanted to do painting.