Artistry is a tapestry woven from myriad influences, experiences, and interactions. Devajyoti Ray’s artistic voyage is a testament to the diverse influences that have sculpted his unique creative narrative.
Artistic Genesis: Tracing Ray’s Influential Pathways
Ray’s journey commenced as a self-taught artist during his school days, immersing himself in local exhibitions and public showcases, captivated by the effervescence of an art world yet untouched by commercial inclinations. This was the 1990s. And like most other young men of his time, art definitely did not look like a possible career option then.
However, by a chance encounter, Ray came across works of Balraj Panesar, a collage artist, that sparked a metamorphosis in his artistic expedition. Panesar’s enigmatic collages, initially puzzling yet captivating from a distance, etched an indelible mark on Ray’s artistic sensibilities. Through multiple visits to Panesar’s studio at SN Banerjee Road, in Kolkata, Ray slowly evolved as an artist, initially imitating Panesar’s own style before evolving his own style in due course.
Panesar also introduced him to many senior artists of the time, who were forging ahead an art movement under the banner of the Society of Contemporary Artists in Kolkata.
It is here that Ray was first exposed to myriad artistic styles.
Soon Ray got inspired by Bikash Bhattacharya. This influence, too, remained with him for a long time.
A Mosaic of Inspiration: Influential Maestros
Influences hold the threads that weave the fabric of an artist’s style. Ray’s artistic oeuvre reflects a mosaic of inspirations, with luminaries like Bikash Bhattacharya shaping his trajectory. But while Bhattacharya painted realistic human figures to tell a surrealistic story, Ray chose to paint like the fauvists with a riot of colours, and yet maintain a comprehendible reality of images.
Pseudorealism – it is called today, but at the time of its inception, it was quite a new thing in the Indian art world.
Pseudorealism as a genre is new, but its spark did exist in previous generation styles – most prominently in the works of Van Gogh, Briget Riley, and perhaps even Andy Warhol.
The Bridget Riley Influence: Shaping Ray’s Artistic Vision
Of these myriad influences Bridget Riley, is perhaps the one artist whom Ray has acknowledged as someone whose art he has studied for the longest time and consciously. As a homage to Riley, Ray has also named some of his works after her. One such work which acquired quite a name was ‘Smoking Bridget’ – a tounge in cheek commentary on the Riley’s style as well as he life-style.
Riley’s distinctive approach to art, characterised by optical illusions and geometric abstractions, profoundly shaped Ray’s artistic vision. The influence of Riley’s techniques resonates through Ray’s work, manifesting in captivating visual dynamism and engaging perceptual experiences.
Tribute to Icons: Planning Series on Renowned Figures
Ray’s admiration for iconic artists transcends mere influence; it sparks homage. With a series planned to pay tribute to revered figures like Egon Schiele, Salvador Dali, Jackson Pollock,
Ramkinker Baij, Amrita Shergill, and others, Ray unveils the depth of his appreciation and seeks to honour their legacies through his artistic expressions.
Unveiling Artistic Footprints: Ray’s Endless Odyssey
Devajyoti Ray’s artistic expedition is an amalgamation of myriad influences, each stroke on the canvas a testament to the diverse inspirations that have shaped his artistic identity. As he continues to evolve, his artistry serves as an invitation—an invitation to explore the intricate interplay of influences that illuminate the nuances of his artistic brilliance.
Devajyoti Ray’s artistic influences narrate a story that transcends mere brushstrokes; it’s a symphony woven from the myriad melodies of artistic inspiration, a canvas painted with the hues of revered maestros and personal introspections.
