Some artworks from Ripples of Reflection | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Kolkata-based artist Nikita Agarwal will be showcasing her work Ripples of Reflection in Bengaluru. The exhibition, which will begin from June 6 at the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, will feature some artworks made with acrylic and charcoal on canvas.

These paintings are inspired by the beautiful city of Varanasi and this is Nikita’s first solo exhibition in Bengaluru. She has previously participated in shows in Kolkata and New Delhi. The self-taught artist says she has captured her exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual charm in her paintings.

Nikita hopes art lovers will find peace and solace in the depictions of this temple city. She says she chose Varanasi because the city delves into the soul. “Each ghat serves as a portal to the world, where I believe spirituality, history and culture meet.”

The paintings use bold brush strokes and a vibrant colour palette, inspired by the ghats of Varanasi, reflecting the spiritual essence of the city on canvas. Nikita says that apart from the temples of Varanasi, she is also inspired by the cremation ground, Manikarnika Ghat. “It is a sacred place and my artwork will invite you to the enduring beauty of the city”.

Nikita Agarwal

The artist, who hails from Kolkata, says the city has contributed to her growth as an artist. “I have learnt and grown with the city. Kolkata is a place I feel I am meant to be. I have also explored different kinds of art works and culture in Kolkata with different artists, which has made me who I am today.”

“The canvas is dominated by deep blue, orange and purple colours and I believe each piece brings life to the saffron-robed Ghats Sages Nikita says of Ripples of Reflection, “The harmonious blend of tradition and modernity of Varanasi is celebrated by offering marigold flowers along the banks of the Ganga.”,

Nikita, a business management student who received a diploma in fashion designing from NIFT, says talent is something that can be acquired. “I have been passionate about art since childhood and I believe talent develops with dedication.”

The exhibition will also feature some paintings from Nikita’s Divine series. “It is also inspired by the city of Varanasi. The highlight of this series is the depiction of sadhus and the majestic Nandi, a symbol of patience and eternal anticipation.”

Nikita says being an artist is a celebration. “Although this path has its pros and cons, I have mostly seen the pros. Art has increased my confidence as a person. It also gives me recognition and motivates me to do more work.”

Nikita, who works late into the night, says she is surprised by her application. “Exhibiting in group shows is interesting because you get a chance to see others’ work and learn about their journey, art and their inspirations.”

Ripples of Reflection will be on display from June 6 to 10 at Gallery No. 3 of Chitrakala Parishath in Bengaluru from 11am to 7pm. The prices of the works are as follows Above ₹80,000.